Pakistan on Tuesday filed its second counter-memorial in the International Court of Justice in connection with the Kulbhushan Jadhav case. In its 400-page rejoinder, Pakistan rejected India’s objections in the case and gave detailed answers to New Delhi’s submissions, GeoNews reported, citing sources.
Foreign Office Director General for India Dr Fareeha Bugti submitted the reply, confirmed Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Mohammad Faisal, according to PTI. This is Pakistan’s first reply to the counter-pleading, and second reply in the overall case so far.
In March 2016, Jadhav was arrested by Pakistani officials and accused of spying for India’s Research and Analysis Wing, and aiding separatist elements in restive Balochistan. In April 2017, a Pakistani martial court sentenced him to death. India, however, maintained that he is a former Navy officer, who retired in 2002.
Soon after his arrest, Pakistan released a video that showed Jadhav allegedly confessing to his crimes. India has questioned not only the authenticity of the video but has also accused Pakistan of torturing Jadhav into confessing.
While the Pakistan Army had claimed Jadhav had been arrested in Saravan at the Iran-Pakistan border, Baloch leader Sarfaraz Bugti said he was picked up from Chaman in Balochistan. India, meanwhile, alleged he was kidnapped by Pakistani forces while in Iran on a business engagement.
India moved the International Court of Justice against the verdict in May 2017, after which the court stayed his execution.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!