NEW DELHI: India accu­sed Pakistan on Thursday of harnessing “UN-designated terrorists” to lead alleged incitement to violence in the disputed state of Jammu and Kashmir even as it reminded Islamabad to ensure full protection to its diplomatic mission against violence by protesters.

Responding to media que­stions, a foreign ministry spokesperson spelled out a familiar demand, which usually surfaces when ties bet­ween the two countries hit a fresh low — that Pakistan should vacate its side of Kashmir.

“We have seen reports about rallies, events and statements related to Jammu & Kashmir in Pakistan and [Azad Kashmir] over the last two days. We have also noted that the events were led by UN-designated terrorists, who had in the past protested the elimination of dreaded terrorists including Osama bin Laden and Taliban leader Akhtar Mansour in Pakistan,” the spokesman said in a statement.

He said India condemned the encouragement and support, which “such terrorists and their activities” receive from Pakistan.

“We once again ask Pak­istan to stop inciting and supporting violence and terrorism in any part of our country and refrain from its deplorable meddling in our internal affairs in any manner.”

The observance of “Ka­­sh­mir’s Accession to Pakis­tan Day” exposes Pakistan’s longing for the territory of Jammu & Kashmir,” the spokesman said.

“India demands that Pakistan must fulfil the obligation to vacate its illegal occupation of POK.”

Published in Dawn, July 22nd, 2016