Article 370: India and Pakistan Clash at UNGA Over Kashmir Issue
India Slams Pakistan's Hypocrisy at UNGA
In a strong and vehement response, India criticized Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's statements on Kashmir during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, 2024. India's First Secretary in the Permanent Mission to the UN, Bhavika Mangalanandan, delivered a scathing Right of Reply, highlighting Pakistan's history of terrorism and hypocrisy.
Pakistan's Claims on Article 370
During his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged India to reverse the abrogation of Article 370, which was revoked on August 5, 2019, to "secure durable peace." Sharif argued that India should enter into a dialogue for a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
India's Retort: Hypocrisy and Terrorism
India's response was swift and decisive. Mangalanandan labeled Pakistan's actions as "hypocrisy at its worst," pointing out that a country with a global reputation for terrorism, narcotics trade, and transnational crime had the audacity to attack the world's largest democracy. She emphasized that Pakistan has long employed cross-border terrorism against its neighbors, citing attacks on India's Parliament, the financial capital Mumbai, marketplaces, and pilgrimage routes.
Mangalanandan also highlighted Pakistan's history of rigged elections and its continuous use of terrorism to disrupt elections in Jammu and Kashmir, which India considers an integral and inalienable part of its territory. She criticized Pakistan for speaking about violence and political choices despite its own dubious democratic credentials.
Consequences of Cross-Border Terrorism
India warned Pakistan that cross-border terrorism would "inevitably invite consequences." Mangalanandan mentioned that Pakistan's fingerprints are on numerous terrorist incidents worldwide and that its policies attract criminal elements from various societies. She also reminded the assembly that Pakistan had hosted Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, further underscoring its involvement in global terrorism.
Pakistan's Response and UN Resolutions
In response to India's assertions, a Pakistani diplomat described India's claims as "baseless and misleading." The diplomat referenced UN Security Council resolutions that call for a free and impartial plebiscite to enable the people of Jammu and Kashmir to exercise their right to self-determination. However, India has consistently maintained that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and that Pakistan's claims are unfounded.
Broader Context and International Implications
The exchange between India and Pakistan at the UNGA reflects the long-standing tensions between the two nations over the Kashmir issue. Pakistan regularly raises this issue at various UN platforms, but it has failed to garner significant international support. India, on the other hand, has emphasized the need for Pakistan to address its internal issues and stop indulging in cross-border terrorism.
In conclusion, the debate over Article 370 at the UNGA has once again highlighted the deep-seated animosity and mistrust between India and Pakistan. India's strong response underscores its commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also warning Pakistan of the consequences of continuing cross-border terrorism.