India Reaffirms Jammu and Kashmir as Integral Territory, Rejects Pakistan's Claims at UN

India has criticised Pakistan at the United Nations for making what it described as “lies and falsehoods” about Jammu and Kashmir, reiterating that the Union Territory “is, and will always remain, an integral and inalienable part of India”. The response was delivered by Member of Parliament Mahima Kumari Mewar during a discussion on decolonisation at the UN General Assembly’s Fourth Committee.

According to a post by India’s Permanent Mission to the UN in New York on X, Mewar exercised India’s Right of Reply following remarks made by Pakistan’s representative. She accused Islamabad of repeatedly using the UN platform to raise what India considers misleading claims about Jammu and Kashmir. Mewar also raised concerns over alleged human rights violations in areas under Pakistan’s control, urging the Pakistani government to end what she described as military occupation, repression, brutality and the unlawful exploitation of resources. She alleged that Pakistani forces and their proxies had killed civilians who were protesting for basic rights, freedoms and essential necessities.

Criticising Pakistan’s political and security record, Mewar referred to allegations of military dictatorship, disputed elections, the detention of elected leaders, religious extremism and support for terrorism. She called on Pakistan to refrain from lecturing other countries at the United Nations on these issues. She concluded by reaffirming India’s position that Jammu and Kashmir would remain an integral part of the country.

India called for stronger international cooperation and accountability mechanisms to address criminal offences and misconduct involving United Nations officials and experts serving on missions. Speaking during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly’s Sixth Committee, Member of Parliament Priya Saroj delivered India’s national statement on the criminal accountability of UN personnel. India’s Permanent Mission said Saroj reiterated the country’s zero-tolerance approach towards criminal conduct and misconduct, while highlighting the importance of cooperation between the United Nations and member states.

Saroj welcomed efforts by the UN Secretary-General to strengthen the existing accountability framework. She also referred to reports submitted under General Assembly Resolution 80/160, emphasising that accountability was essential to maintaining the organisation’s integrity and credibility. According to her statement, the UN Office of Legal Affairs referred 93 cases involving 93 UN officials and experts on mission to their countries of nationality between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, for investigation and possible prosecution.

Saroj stressed that the effectiveness of the system depended on timely investigations, appropriate legal action and cooperation between the United Nations and national governments. She encouraged member states to investigate allegations promptly and pursue prosecution where warranted, while keeping the UN informed of developments. She also urged countries to consider strengthening their legal jurisdiction over serious offences committed abroad by their nationals while serving as UN officials or experts on mission, in accordance with their domestic legal systems.

Emphasising the need to protect the rights of everyone involved, Saroj said accountability must be accompanied by due process and safeguards for victims and witnesses. She identified preventive measures, including training and awareness programmes, as important components of the broader effort to prevent misconduct.

Highlighting India’s legal framework, she noted that the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, contains provisions addressing certain offences committed outside India by Indian nationals, while the Extradition Act, 1962, provides a framework for extradition where applicable. Saroj also stressed the importance of continued contributions to the UN Secretary-General’s Trust Fund in Support of Victims of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse. She reaffirmed India’s commitment to working with member states and the United Nations to strengthen accountability, improve cooperation and ensure the effective implementation of relevant measures.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.