New Delhi, Feb. 16 -- Rejecting any need for third-party mediation, the Indian government on Sunday responded to the comments made by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the Kashmir issue and said the region remained an integral part of India.

"India's position has not changed. Jammu & Kashmir has been, is and will continue to be an integral part of India. The issue that needs to be addressed is that of vacation of the territories illegally and forcibly occupied by Pakistan. Further issues, if any, would be discussed bilaterally. There is no role or scope for third party mediation," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in his statement.Guterres is currently visiting Pakistan.Guterres on Sunday said nuclear-armed neighbour...