Pakistan Counters Indian Accusations at UN General Assembly

Pakistan has dismissed recent Indian accusations of terrorism at the United Nations General Assembly, countering with claims that India itself supports terrorist activities, violates international commitments, and discriminates against minorities.

During the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, India’s representative Petal Gahlot alleged that Pakistan backs cross-border terrorism, stating, “Our right to defend ourselves against terrorism will be exercised and continued. Terrorism by Pakistan will have consequences.”

Responding to these claims, Saima Saleem, Counsellor at Pakistan’s UN mission, stated Islamabad had provided evidence of Indian financing and support for groups targeting Pakistan, including the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), and Majeed Brigade. She reported that Pakistan has lost nearly 100,000 lives to terrorism since 2000 and experienced substantial economic losses, while its counter-terrorism efforts have been recognized internationally.

Saleem also referenced cases involving Indian nationals in alleged overseas assassination plots, naming former Indian naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav and Nikhil Gupta, who had pleaded guilty in a related case in the United States. She reiterated Pakistan's stance on Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing its disputed status and the need to resolve the issue per UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. Saleem alleged restrictions on political and fundamental rights in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, contrasting it with Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Further allegations included claims that Indian authorities promote the Hindutva ideology and foster discrimination and violence against minorities such as Muslims, Christians, Dalits, and Sikhs. Saleem also accused India of trying to use the Indus Waters Treaty as a political tool, reiterating Pakistan’s view that the treaty is legally binding and continues to apply.

Referencing the May 2025 military escalation between the two countries, Saleem asserted that India faced defeat in the event termed Marka-e-Haq. She concluded by affirming Pakistan’s dedication to peace, dialogue, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, stating, “We will defend ourselves whenever aggression is imposed upon us, but we will never abandon the path to peace.”