After the representative of Pakistan raised the issue of Jammu and Kashmir in the United Nations General Assembly, India retorted sharply and slammed Pakistan for misusing UN platforms to further its "divisive agenda," PTI reported.
What did India say?
Eldos Mathew Punnoose, Counsellor in the Permanent Mission of India to the UN, said on Thursday that a secession in pluralistic and democratic states should not be encouraged through the misuse of the right to self-determination.
The Counsellor said, "At a time when member states have to rise beyond their narrow considerations, Pakistan continues to misuse all platforms and processes in the UN to drive their divisive agenda."
Delivering the national statement at the United Nations General Assembly Plenary on 'Report of the Secretary-General on the work of the Organisation,' Mr. Punnoose added, "This forum is no exception either, and Pakistan made an unwarranted reference to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, an integral and inalienable part of India."
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"The right to self-determination is a fundamental principle enshrined in the UN Charter. However, this right must not be abused to encourage secession in pluralistic and democratic states. Though habituated, Pakistan would do well if they do not resort to baseless allegations and falsehoods and portray a picture that is completely detached from reality," Punnoose said.
'The world hopes the UN to deliver'
Counsellor Punnoose's scathing reply came in response to Pakistan's Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad's reference to Jammu and Kashmir in the UNGA.
Counsellor Punnoose said, "India has consistently endeavoured to bring these to the forefront across all UN platforms. Concerted and focused follow-up action is required on this front. Moving forward, there is a need to translate the sentiments of the Global South to concrete and tangible steps."
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India said the United Nations' failure to act decisively on its core responsibilities raises serious concerns about the organisation's effectiveness, legitimacy, and credibility. "This is quite pronounced in case of maintenance of international peace and security. As conflicts rage across different parts of the globe, the world hopes the UN to deliver, to put an end to human suffering and misery," the Indian representative said.
