India on Friday strongly condemned Pakistan for making 'unwarranted references' to Jammu and Kashmir during a session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). New Delhi asserted that the region 'was, is, and will remain an integral part' of India, accusing Islamabad of misusing UN platforms to push its political agenda and spread misleading narratives on matters that are strictly India's internal affairs.
India's Firm Stance at the UN
In a sharp rebuke, India's representative at the UN stated that Pakistan's comments were baseless and constituted a clear interference in India's domestic matters. The Indian delegation emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir has always been a part of India and no amount of propaganda can alter this reality. The statement came after Pakistan's delegate raised the Kashmir issue during the UNGA debate, attempting to internationalize a bilateral matter.
Accusations of Misusing UN Platforms
India accused Pakistan of consistently abusing international forums like the United Nations to divert attention from its own internal problems and to peddle false narratives. New Delhi pointed out that such actions undermine the credibility of the UN and waste valuable time that could be spent on pressing global challenges. India reiterated that any discussion on Jammu and Kashmir is unwarranted and unacceptable.
Bilateral Matters Should Not Be Internationalized
India's response underscored that issues related to Jammu and Kashmir are bilateral in nature and should be resolved between India and Pakistan through peaceful dialogue, without third-party intervention. New Delhi called upon Islamabad to cease its attempts at internationalizing the issue and instead focus on creating a conducive environment for bilateral talks. India also highlighted its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.
Pakistan's Continued Efforts to Raise Kashmir
Pakistan has repeatedly raised the Kashmir issue at various international platforms, including the UN, despite India's consistent objection. Islamabad's narrative often includes allegations of human rights violations and demands for self-determination, which India firmly rejects as baseless. India maintains that the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of the country and that Pakistan has no locus standi in the matter.
India's Call for Responsible Behavior
In its statement, India urged Pakistan to refrain from making unfounded allegations and to adopt a responsible approach in international forums. New Delhi emphasized that such actions only harm Pakistan's own credibility and do not contribute to regional peace. India also reminded the international community of Pakistan's track record of supporting cross-border terrorism and urged it to hold Islamabad accountable.
Reaffirmation of India's Sovereignty
The Indian delegation concluded by reaffirming India's sovereignty over Jammu and Kashmir and warned that any attempts to challenge this will be met with a firm response. India remains committed to the welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and is focused on their development and integration with the rest of the country. The statement served as a clear message that India will not tolerate any interference in its internal affairs.
