India slams Pakistan for human rights violations in PoK
What's the story
India has slammed Pakistan for its alleged human rights abuses in parts of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK). Bhavika Mangalanandan, a First Secretary at India's United Nations Mission, made this statement during a General Assembly session. She accused Pakistani forces and their proxies of killing innocent civilians who are demanding basic rights and freedoms in the illegally occupied areas of Kashmir.
Call for action
Managalanandan urges Pakistan to end 'brutality'
Mangalanandan urged Pakistan to end these "grave and ongoing human rights violations." She said the population is in an open revolt against Pakistan's military occupation, repression, brutality, and illegal exploitation of resources. The Indian diplomat also slammed Pakistan for making baseless allegations against India at every opportunity at the UN. "Repetitive allegations and lies change neither reality nor the truth," she said.
Democracy defense
Indian diplomat defends democratic choices of J&K people
Mangalanandan also defended the democratic choices of people in Jammu and Kashmir, calling their participation in elections a vindication of India's democracy. She rejected Pakistan's attempts to denigrate these democratic choices and highlighted the social and economic progress made by the region. The Indian diplomat stressed that Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh are an integral part of India.
Human rights
India's commitment to human rights
Mangalanandan reiterated India's commitment to human rights, which she said is rooted in Mahatma Gandhi's freedom struggle. She said India's Constitution enshrines this Gandhian legacy and that the country's domestic framework for human rights protection continues to evolve. The judiciary has expanded protections, while national and state-level Human Rights Commissions provide a framework for safeguarding fundamental rights.