NEW DELHI, Aug 12: India warned Pakistan on Tuesday that its public criticism of the ongoing violence in Jammu and Kashmir was tantamount to interference in its internal affairs, which could harm their peace talks.

Responding to questions posed by journalists on Pakistan’s criticism of the Indian army assault on unarmed demonstrators on Monday, in which a senior Hurriyat leader was among the five killed, the Indian foreign ministry spokesman used the occasion to describe the state as an integral part of the country.

“We have seen the statement by the Foreign Minister of Pakistan on the situation in the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir and remarks attributed to the spokesperson of the Pakistan Foreign Office yesterday,” the spokesman said.

“These statements constitute clear interference in the internal affairs of an integral part of India. Government of India and the State Government are taking all steps necessary to restore law and order in this part of the country.

“Such statements by leaders of a foreign country do not help the situation. Nor do they contribute to creating the atmosphere necessary for the dialogue process between India and Pakistan to move forward,” the spokesman said.