JNM journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
Shashi Tharoor, Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Congress MP, has clarified that the committee’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir is limited to studying foreign policy and diplomatic matters. He said the committee has not come to review the current situation in the Valley or local issues.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Shashi Tharoor said the committee is currently studying three major topics: a review of India’s bilateral diplomatic relations with Pakistan, an assessment of diplomatic aspects related to the India-China border, and a study of the availability and functioning of passport offices and services in Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs’ mandate is clearly limited to foreign policy, international relations, and matters related to the Ministry of External Affairs. Therefore, the committee’s visit is also focused on those topics.
Tharoor stated that he has met with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, but has not yet held detailed discussions with other stakeholders. He stated that the committee’s objective is not to assess the political or social situation in the valley, but to gather information on its assigned subjects.
There was local buzz that the committee’s visit was to assess the current situation in Jammu and Kashmir. However, Tharoor dismissed these speculations, stating that the committee was working within its mandate and focused solely on foreign policy issues.
He stated that India-Pakistan and India-China relations remain important diplomatic topics at present. Furthermore, special attention is being paid to making passport services in border areas more effective and accessible. Following its study and meetings, the committee will prepare a detailed report and submit it to Parliament.
It is noteworthy that the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs is currently visiting Jammu and Kashmir and gathering information from various departments and officials. The committee’s report could provide important suggestions regarding future foreign policy and related services.
