India Rebukes Pakistan’s Remarks on Kashmir at UN, Affirms Territory’s Status
During a recent UN debate on peacekeeping operations, India issued a strong rebuttal to Pakistan’s reference to Jammu and Kashmir, reaffirming the territory’s status as an integral part of India.
Speaking at the Special Political and Decolonization (Fourth Committee) of the UN General Assembly, BJP National Spokesperson and Member of Parliament Sudhanshu Trivedi asserted, “the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir was, is, and will remain an integral part of India.”
“Rhetoric and Falsehood Will Not Alter Facts”
Mr. Trivedi criticized Pakistan for attempting to divert the UN’s focus, urging it to “desist from rhetoric and falsehood,” which, he emphasized, “will not alter the facts.” Highlighting the democratic process in Jammu and Kashmir, he reminded the assembly of recent elections in the region, symbolizing the democratic rights exercised by its residents.
India’s retort followed a statement by Pakistan referencing the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP), which monitors the ceasefire along the Line of Control. India holds that UNMOGIP has become redundant since the Simla Agreement established the Line of Control, thus rendering UNMOGIP’s role irrelevant.
Emphasis on Peacekeeping Challenges and Safety of Troops
As part of the comprehensive review of peacekeeping operations, Mr. Trivedi also emphasized India’s role as a leading contributor to UN peacekeeping missions. He highlighted that modern conflicts are increasingly complex, involving terrorism and non-state actors. “Realistic and practical mandates,” he noted, are crucial for mission success, as unclear mandates contribute to operational failures.
Underscoring India’s commitment to peacekeeper safety, he called for justice against crimes targeting peacekeepers, emphasizing that redundant missions drain resources and require clear exit strategies from inception.
India remains committed to global peace efforts, and Mr. Trivedi concluded by calling for the establishment of a memorial wall at UN Headquarters to honor fallen peacekeepers, reinforcing the mission’s dedication to humanity beyond national interests.
India’s delegation, comprising 12 members of parliament, continues its engagements at the UN, underscoring the nation’s resolve for global peace and security.
