The United Nations became the stage for yet another India-Pakistan verbal duel over Kashmir, with New Delhi accusing Islamabad of perverting the sacred right of self-determination for propaganda purposes. This occurred Thursday during the General Assembly’s review of the UN’s annual activities report.
Pakistan’s envoy Asim Iftikhar Ahmad seized the moment to highlight self-determination for Palestinians, seamlessly slipping in references to Kashmir and calling for respect of UN resolutions. He also voiced Pakistan’s resistance to adding new permanent seats to the Security Council—a move seen as targeting India’s aspirations.
India’s Counselor Eldos Punnos hit back decisively. ‘In times when member states must rise above narrow mindsets, Pakistan abuses every UN process to advance its agenda of division,’ he said. Punnos stressed that Jammu and Kashmir is unequivocally part of India, and self-determination cannot justify promoting secession in diverse, democratic societies.
The diplomat called out Pakistan’s habitual, unwarranted mentions of the Union Territory, which most delegates overlook. ‘It’s time Pakistan stops relying on lies and fabrications that bear no resemblance to reality,’ he added.
Historical context bolsters India’s position: UNSC Resolution 47 requires Pakistan to vacate all occupied areas first, a step it has ignored for decades. Democratic exercises in Kashmir, from local polls to assembly elections, have repeatedly demonstrated the populace’s integration with India, nullifying outdated plebiscite demands.
As global opinions diverge— with many nations, particularly African states, rejecting Pakistan’s Security Council stance—the episode highlights Islamabad’s isolation on the issue. India’s robust defense not only counters propaganda but also reinforces international recognition of its sovereignty over the region.