UK MP Bob Blackman tables motion reaffirming India’s sovereignty over Jammu and Kashmir on Accession Day

British MP Bob Blackman Introduces Motion Reaffirming India's Sovereignty Over J&K

British Conservative MP Bob Blackman, who represents Harrow East, introduced an Early Day Motion (EDM) in the UK House of Commons on Monday to mark Jammu and Kashmir Accession Day.

The motion reaffirms India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity over the region of Jammu and Kashmir. It was co-signed by Democratic Unionist Party MP Jim Shannon and is seen as a strong expression of support for India’s stance on the matter, underscoring the historical accession of the region to India on October 26, 1947.

According to the text of the motion, the House of Commons “notes the continued observance on 26 October of Jammu and Kashmir Accession Day by residents of the United Kingdom of Jammu and Kashmiri heritage.”

It records that the Instrument of Accession was executed by Maharaja Hari Singh in 1947 and reiterates India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity over the state.

The motion also extends condolences to civilians affected by terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, including the victims of the Pahalgam attack, and acknowledges the significance of Accession Day for communities that commemorate it as the constitutional union of Jammu and Kashmir with India.

Further, it welcomes peaceful commemorations in the UK that promote historical understanding, cultural exchange, and civic engagement. It calls for “constructive dialogue, community cohesion, and respect for international norms and sovereign boundaries” in discussions related to the region.

Accession Day, observed annually across Jammu and Kashmir, celebrates the region’s integration with India and honours those who defended its sovereignty. The day marks a turning point in the subcontinent’s history, as Pakistan-backed tribal forces invaded J&K in 1947, prompting Maharaja Hari Singh to sign the Instrument of Accession. The document was accepted by then-Governor General Lord Mountbatten, making the accession official on October 27, 1947.

Blackman’s motion reinforces the legality of the accession and reflects a diplomatic acknowledgment of India’s position, particularly amid ongoing efforts by Pakistan to internationalise the Kashmir issue.

Blackman also condemned the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.

“Following the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, India launched Operation Sindoor: precision air-strikes on 9 terrorist bases. As peace talks continue, I asked what steps the Foreign Secretary is taking to ensure the terrorist bases are removed from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir?” he stated in an X post, carrying a video of him speaking in the House of Commons.

Blackman’s remarks also underscored Pakistan’s role in sheltering terrorist organisations.