At the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, India delivered a sharp rebuttal to Pakistan’s remarks on Jammu and Kashmir, rejecting the allegations as “baseless propaganda driven by malice.” Exercising its Right of Reply, Indian representative Anupama Singh dismissed statements made by Pakistan and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), asserting that India firmly rejects all claims targeting its internal matters.
Reiterating New Delhi’s longstanding position, Singh stated that Jammu and Kashmir “was, is, and will always remain an integral part of India.” She emphasized that the only outstanding issue related to the region is Pakistan’s “illegal occupation of Indian territories,” urging Islamabad to vacate areas under its control.
Development Push and Democratic Mandate Highlighted
Highlighting infrastructure progress, India referenced the inauguration of the Chenab Rail Bridge — described as the world’s highest railway bridge — in Jammu and Kashmir. Singh remarked that if Pakistan considers such developments “fake,” it must be “living in La La Land.”
India further noted that Jammu and Kashmir’s development budget exceeds the recent financial assistance package sought by Pakistan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Responding to criticism on democratic processes, Singh said it was ironic for a country where civilian governments rarely complete their full constitutional terms to lecture others on democracy.
Citing strong voter participation in recent parliamentary and assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, India argued that residents have rejected terrorism and violence in favor of democratic governance and economic growth.
Focus on Internal Stability Urged
India also accused Pakistan of attempting to destabilize the region through support for cross-border terrorism. The Indian delegate advised Islamabad to prioritize resolving its internal political and economic challenges rather than using international platforms for rhetorical attacks.
The exchange at the UNHRC reflects India’s assertive diplomatic stance, signaling that New Delhi will continue to counter Pakistan’s claims with firm political, developmental, and democratic arguments on global forums.
