India Confronts Pakistan Over UN Misuse: A Call for Unity and Realism

In a recent address at the United Nations, India firmly criticized Pakistan for misusing UN platforms to promote its divisive agenda, particularly regarding Jammu and Kashmir. Eldos Mathew Punnoose, representing India, emphasized that the principle of self-determination should not be exploited to incite secession in democratic nations. He called for a focus on the unique developmental challenges faced by the Global South and urged the UN to fulfill its commitments to peace, security, and human rights. This confrontation highlights the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan on the international stage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 16, 2026, 11:10 IST

India's Strong Response at the UN

United Nations: India has criticized Pakistan for exploiting UN platforms to promote its divisive agenda, particularly after Pakistan's representative brought up Jammu and Kashmir during a General Assembly session.

Eldos Mathew Punnoose, a counselor at India's Permanent Mission to the UN, stated on Thursday that the principle of self-determination should not be misused to incite secession in democratic and diverse nations.

"While member states should rise above narrow interests, Pakistan continues to misuse UN platforms to further its divisive agenda," Punnoose remarked.

He emphasized that Pakistan's reference to Jammu and Kashmir, which India considers an integral part of its territory, was unwarranted during the national statement at the UN General Assembly Plenary discussing the Secretary-General's report.

"Self-determination is a fundamental principle in the UN Charter, but it should not be used to promote secession in pluralistic societies. Pakistan should refrain from making baseless claims and presenting a distorted view of reality," he added.

India's firm response followed comments from Pakistan's UN Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, who mentioned Jammu and Kashmir in his address.

Despite Pakistan's persistent efforts to raise the Jammu and Kashmir issue at the UN, it has not gained significant support from the international community.

Punnoose also highlighted the unique developmental challenges faced by the Global South, which encompass issues like development financing and climate justice.

"India has consistently worked to bring these challenges to the forefront on all UN platforms. There is a pressing need for focused follow-up actions to translate the sentiments of the Global South into tangible outcomes," he stated.

As the UN reflects on its past, it is crucial to consider the current context and future direction of the organization.

"The United Nations is at a pivotal moment, facing numerous critical challenges. The global community expects the UN to fulfill its commitments across the three pillars: peace and security, development, and human rights," he remarked.

India pointed out that the UN's failure to effectively intervene in its core functions raises concerns about its efficacy, legitimacy, and credibility, particularly regarding international peace and security. "As conflicts continue to escalate worldwide, there is a collective hope that the UN will act decisively to alleviate human suffering and hardship," Punnoose concluded.