India has strongly rejected Pakistan’s repeated references to Jammu and Kashmir during a United Nations debate on peacekeeping reforms, dismissing them as unwarranted and reaffirming that the region remains an integral part of India. Speaking at the UN, India’s Permanent Representative, Parvathaneni Harish, condemned Pakistan for its attempts to divert attention from critical discussions on peacekeeping by raising the Kashmir issue. He asserted that such repeated claims neither validate Pakistan’s position nor justify its long-standing support for cross-border terrorism.

Harish further emphasized that Pakistan is illegally occupying parts of Jammu and Kashmir and must vacate the region. He made it clear that India would not allow its sovereignty to be questioned on international platforms and warned Pakistan against using the UN for what he described as a parochial and divisive agenda. While India chose not to engage in a lengthy rebuttal, it reaffirmed its stance, stating that it would refrain from exercising a more detailed Right of Reply at this stage. However, India’s firm response sent a clear message that it would not hesitate to counter false narratives when necessary.

In addition to addressing Pakistan’s statements on Kashmir, India used the opportunity to highlight broader concerns related to UN peacekeeping. Harish underscored the need for peacekeeping operations to evolve in response to modern challenges, particularly threats posed by armed groups and non-state actors. He stressed that for UN peacekeeping to remain effective, it must receive adequate funding and resources. He also called for greater participation of women in peacekeeping missions, recognizing their crucial role in conflict resolution and stability efforts. India, he noted, had recently hosted a conference for women peacekeepers from the Global South, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening their presence in peacekeeping operations.

Furthermore, India reiterated its unwavering commitment to UN peacekeeping efforts and emphasized the urgent need for Security Council reforms. Harish pointed out that the current structure of the Security Council no longer reflects the geopolitical realities of the modern world and called for changes to make it more inclusive and representative. By advocating for reforms, India reinforced its broader vision of a more effective and equitable global governance system.

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