In a powerful and unequivocal address at the United Nations, India delivered a stern rebuke to Pakistan, labeling democracy an “alien concept” to its neighbor and accusing it of “grave and ongoing human rights violations” in territories under its illegal occupation.
The sharp remarks were made by India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, during the UN Security Council’s open debate on ‘The United Nations Organisation: Looking into the Future’ on Friday.
A Contrast in Democratic Credentials
Ambassador Harish drew a stark contrast between India’s democratic traditions and the political reality in Pakistan. He firmly stated that the people of Jammu and Kashmir exercise their fundamental rights “in accordance with India’s time-tested democratic traditions and constitutional framework.”
In a direct jab at Pakistan’s political instability, he added, “We, of course, know that these are concepts alien to Pakistan,” underscoring the perception that democratic institutions have consistently struggled to take root there.
Reiterating India’s longstanding position, the envoy declared that Jammu and Kashmir “will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India.”
Call to End “Ongoing Human Rights Violations”
Shifting the focus from the Kashmir dispute to Pakistan’s own territories, Harish issued a strong condemnation of Islamabad’s domestic governance. He specifically referenced the ongoing unrest in regions like Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, where local populations have long reported military repression and brutality.
“We call upon Pakistan to end the grave and ongoing human rights violations in the areas illegally occupied by it,” Harish stated, holding a mirror to Pakistan’s frequent raising of the Kashmir issue on international platforms.
A System “Not Equipped for 2025”
Moving beyond the bilateral exchange, Ambassador Harish turned his attention to the urgent need for systemic reform within the UN itself. He argued that the current structure of the Security Council, established nearly 80 years ago, is obsolete and inadequate for modern global challenges.
Labeling it “an outdated Council architecture that mirrors the geopolitical realities of 1945,” Harish asserted that such a structure “is not equipped to handle the challenges of 2025.” He urged the UN to undertake “real comprehensive reforms” to correct this disparity.
Championing the Global South
A central pillar of his argument was the need for greater inclusion of the Global South in international decision-making. Harish emphasized that these nations face a unique set of challenges in development, climate change, and financing, yet their voices are disproportionately marginalized in global forums.
“Postponing reforms indefinitely does immense disservice to our citizens, especially in the Global South,” he warned, stating that true global decision-making must be more democratic and inclusive to be effective and legitimate.
A Call for Collective Action
Concluding his address on a philosophical note, Ambassador Harish invoked India’s ancient civilisational ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family. He called on all member states to unite and work collectively to revitalize the United Nations, ensuring it is better equipped to fulfill its purpose in a new and rapidly evolving era.
The speech served as a multifaceted diplomatic offensive, simultaneously countering a regional adversary while positioning India as a leading voice for a more equitable and representative global order.
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Comments are closed.