During a UN Security Council meeting focused on women, peace, and security, India delivered a sharp rebuke to Pakistan, labeling its attempt to raise the Kashmir issue as “mischievous provocation” and “political propaganda.” India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P Harish, highlighted the dire plight of women from minority communities in Pakistan, particularly Hindus, Sikhs, and Christians, accusing Pakistan of spreading misinformation and disinformation.
In a powerful statement, Ambassador Harish stated, “It is despicable yet entirely predictable that one delegation has chosen to indulge in mischievous provocation based on their tried and tested tactic of spreading misinformation and disinformation.” He pointed out that Pakistan’s claims regarding Kashmir were “completely misplaced” and served only as a diversionary tactic during a critical debate on women’s rights.
Focusing on the real issue at hand, India underlined the alarming situation faced by women belonging to minority communities in Pakistan. According to data from Pakistan’s Human Rights Commission, an estimated thousand women from these communities are subjected to “abduction, forced religious conversions and forced marriages every year.” Harish declared, “We are well aware that the condition of women belonging to minority communities, notably Hindus, Sikhs and Christians in that country, remains deplorable.”
India’s statement at the UNSC Open Debate on ‘Women Building Peace in a Changing Environment’ reiterated its strong commitment to the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda. Harish stressed the crucial role of women’s full, equal, meaningful, and safe participation in decision-making at all levels, including politics, governance, institution-building, the rule of law, the security sector, and economic recovery. He emphasized that achieving sustainable peace is directly tied to the economic and social well-being of the population, especially women.
As a testament to its dedication to the WPS agenda, India highlighted its achievements in this field. India, the fifth-largest troop contributor to UN peacekeeping missions, deployed the first-ever all-female Formed Police Unit to Liberia in 2007, setting a precedent for inclusivity in UN peacekeeping operations. The unit’s work garnered widespread appreciation within Liberia and the UN.
Recognizing the evolving nature of the world, India acknowledged the importance of harnessing new technologies to enhance women’s participation while safeguarding against online threats and misinformation. India emphasized its commitment to leveraging digital technologies to bridge the gender divide, enhance financial inclusion, and empower women, especially in rural areas. India called upon the international community to develop robust mechanisms to address emerging challenges related to women’s rights and security in the digital age.
