During the 61st Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, held in Geneva from February 23 to March 31, India firmly addressed Pakistan’s claims. Anupama Singh, representing India, utilized the Right to Reply mechanism on February 25 to counter allegations made by Pakistan and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Singh described the OIC as being manipulated into acting as a “echo chamber” for Pakistan’s narratives. She stated, “We categorically reject these allegations,” and emphasized that Pakistan’s continuous propaganda reveals a sense of envy.

Singh reiterated India’s position regarding Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that it has always been an inseparable part of India. She affirmed that the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India in 1947 was completely legitimate and irreversible, aligning with the principles outlined in the Indian Independence Act and international law. Singh further remarked that the only dispute concerning this region is the “illegal occupation of Indian territories by Pakistan,” urging Islamabad to relinquish control of these areas.

Infrastructure Advancements in India

Addressing the subject of infrastructure advancements, Singh highlighted the inauguration of the Chenab Rail Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir, noted as the highest railway bridge globally. She provocatively stated, “If the Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest bridge, inaugurated in Jammu and Kashmir last year, is fake, then Pakistan must be hallucinating or living in the ‘La-la-land’.” Furthermore, she contrasted the development budget of Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistan’s economic challenges, stating that it exceeds the recent bailout package sought by Pakistan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

In response to critiques concerning democratic systems, Singh contended that it is untenable to receive lessons on democracy from a nation where elected governments seldom complete their terms. She pointed out the significant voter turnout in the most recent general and assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, suggesting that this demonstrated the local populace’s rejection of terrorism and violence, as well as their commitment to developmental progress.

Singh accused Pakistan of trying to destabilize the region through “relentless state-sponsored terrorism,” while equally asserting that Jammu and Kashmir is advancing politically, economically, and socially. She further remarked that Pakistan should prioritize resolving its internal issues rather than attempting to distract from them through grandstanding at international platforms, adding that “the world can certainly see through its charade.” This exchange illustrates the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan at multilateral institutions like the UNHRC regarding the Jammu and Kashmir issue.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share