India on Thursday issued a strong rebuttal to Pakistan at the United Nations, accusing Islamabad of repeatedly misusing UN platforms to advance what it described as a “divisive agenda.” The response came after Pakistan’s envoy raised the issue of Jammu and Kashmir during a United Nations General Assembly session.
Delivering India’s national statement at the UN General Assembly Plenary on the Report of the Secretary-General on the work of the Organisation, Eldos Mathew Punnoose, Counsellor at India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, said Pakistan’s remarks were unwarranted and disconnected from ground realities.
“At a time when member states need to rise beyond narrow considerations, Pakistan continues to misuse UN platforms and processes to further its divisive agenda,” Punnoose said.
India Reaffirms Position on Jammu and Kashmir
Calling out Pakistan’s reference to Jammu and Kashmir, Punnoose reiterated India’s long-standing and consistent position on the matter.
“This forum is no exception. Pakistan made an unwarranted reference to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral and inalienable part of India,” he stated.
India has maintained that Pakistan’s repeated attempts to internationalise the issue at the United Nations and other multilateral forums have failed to gain broader international support.
Warning Against Misuse of Self-Determination
Punnoose also addressed the issue of self-determination, cautioning against its misuse to promote secessionist narratives.
“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,” he said, adding that Pakistan should refrain from baseless allegations and false portrayals detached from reality.
Focus on Global South Priorities
Beyond the exchange with Pakistan, India used the platform to highlight challenges faced by the Global South. Punnoose emphasised that India has consistently worked to bring these concerns to the forefront across UN forums.
“There is a need to translate the sentiments of the Global South into concrete and tangible steps through focused follow-up action,” he said.
Concerns Over UN Effectiveness
Reflecting on the broader functioning of the United Nations, Punnoose said the organisation is passing through a crucial phase, with growing expectations across its three core pillars—peace and security, development, and human rights.
India also flagged concerns over the UN’s ability to act decisively, particularly in addressing ongoing global conflicts.
“The UN’s inability to purposefully intervene in its critical functions raises questions about its efficacy, legitimacy, and credibility, especially in maintaining international peace and security,” Punnoose noted, adding that the world looks to the UN to help end human suffering caused by prolonged conflicts.
