The 627 Indian nationals who were stranded in Pakistan have returned through Integrated Check Post, Attari. Giving the information, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said they returned on the 25th, 26th and 27th of June. He said, there are about 100 people who still remain in Pakistan and India is in touch with Pakistan authorities and awaiting clearances to facilitate their return.
On general elections in Gilgit Baltistan, the spokesperson said, India completely rejects attempts by Pakistan to bring material changes in the Indian territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. He said, such cosmetic exercises are intended to camouflage Pakistan’s illegal occupation of Indian territories. India has called upon Pakistan to vacate all Indian territories under their illegal occupation.
On whether Pakistan High Commission has reduced its strength by half, Mr Srivastava said, following the decision by Indian government to reduce the staff strength of both the High Commissions of India and Pakistan, the members of both High Commissions returned on 30th of June. He said, 38 officials including family members of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad crossed over via ICP Attari and 143 officials including family members of the Pakistan High Commission crossed over.