India Criticizes Pakistan at UNGA, Cites Its Questionable Track Record

India has strongly criticized Pakistan at the UN General Assembly, stating that it maintains a "questionable track record" in all areas. This response came in the wake of comments made by Pakistan's UN envoy, Munir Akram, which India deemed "destructive and harmful."

Ruchira Kamboj, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, responded firmly to Akram's extensive remarks against India, which included references to Kashmir, the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, and the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. These comments were made during the UN General Assembly meeting on 'Culture of Peace.'

Kamboj emphasized that as the Assembly strives to foster a culture of peace in these challenging times, the focus remains on constructive dialogue. She expressed her disappointment with the remarks from a certain delegation, which she felt lacked decorum and detracted from collective efforts due to their destructive nature.

She urged this delegation to adhere to the fundamental principles of respect and diplomacy that should always guide discussions. She questioned whether it was too much to ask of a country with a questionable track record in all aspects.

Kamboj stated that terrorism is in direct conflict with the culture of peace and the fundamental teachings of all religions, which promote compassion, understanding, and coexistence. She stressed the importance of Member States working together to foster a genuine culture of peace and viewing the world as a united family.

She also highlighted the significant challenges the world faces from geopolitical tensions and uneven development, and the urgent need to address the growing intolerance, discrimination, and violence based on religion or belief.

Kamboj expressed concern over the increasing attacks on sacred sites, including churches, monasteries, gurudwaras, mosques, temples, and synagogues. She called for a swift and united response from the global community to such acts.

She emphasized the importance of addressing these issues directly in discussions, resisting political expediencies, and ensuring that they are central to policy, dialogues, and international engagements.

Kamboj reminded the UNGA meeting of the doctrine of Ahimsa, championed by Mahatma Gandhi, which continues to be a cornerstone of India's commitment to peace.

She highlighted India's religious and linguistic diversity, stating that India is not only the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, but also a stronghold for Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism. She noted that India has historically been a refuge for persecuted faiths, demonstrating its long-standing embrace of diversity.

Kamboj added that India's cultural mosaic is a testament to tolerance and coexistence, with festivals such as Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and Nowruz transcending religious boundaries and celebrating shared joys among diverse communities.

India praised Bangladesh for presenting the resolution 'Follow-up to the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace', which Delhi proudly co-sponsored.