India's tenure as the President of the G20, a group of leading nations, has
encountered a web of controversies following the boycott of a meeting held in
Kashmir by China and Saudi Arabia. This gathering, focused on tourism and
attended by delegates from most G20 countries, aimed to demonstrate the region's
stability and prosperity after India's unilateral decision to bring Kashmir
under direct control in 2019.
However, China opposed holding any G20 meetings in disputed territory, while
Pakistan labeled the meeting as irresponsible. The former chief minister of
Jammu and Kashmir accused India of exploiting the G20 for its own agenda, and a
UN special rapporteur expressed concerns
over human rights violations and political persecution in the region.
Amid escalating tensions, the meeting highlighted the divisive nature of
India's actions in splitting Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, further complicated
by territorial disputes with China. Despite criticism and boycotts, India
defended its prerogative to hold the G20 meeting in Srinagar, highlighting the
importance of showcasing tourism in the region. |