NCP condemns Abdul Basit's remark, demands sending him back to Pakistan

The Nationalist Congress Party has condemned Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit's remark wherein he dedicated Pakistan's Independence Day for Kashmir's "freedom" and said the Government of India should send him back to his own country.

"Pakistan High Commissioner Basit's statement regarding the independence of Kashmir is highly objectionable. It is the duty of the foreign ministry and the Government of India to send him back to his own country," NCP leader Nawab Malik told ANI.

"Sitting here in India and speaking against the country cannot be tolerated," he added.

Disquieted over the ceasefire violations that occurred yesterday, Malik said the violations have increased in the last two years and requested the Government of India to give a tough message to Pakistan.

"Since last two years there have been lots of cease fire violations happening in the border area, the country has to give tough message," he said.

In a provocative remark, Pakistan High Commissioner yesterday said the Pakistan is dedicating its Independence Day to Kashmir's freedom and will continue to extend its support to the people of the state.

His remark came during Pakistan's Independence Day celebrations held at the embassy in New Delhi.

Meanwhile the ceasefire in LOC was violated with Pakistan firing at two places in Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir yesterday.

The Indian army responded heavily to the ceasefire violation by Pakistan.

The attack comes hours after a grenade attack on Amarnath Yathra pilgrims in Poonch, where almost 15 people were injured.

There have been 30 ceasefire violations by Pakistan on the Line of Control till July 31 with one casualty from the army side.