During a recent United Nations session, Congress MP Rajiv Shukla, representing India, condemned Pakistan for again raising the Kashmir issue, accusing the neighboring country of spreading falsehoods about the region. Shukla criticized Pakistan’s delegation for using the international forum to present misleading narratives, claiming that they continuously propagate misinformation about Kashmir’s situation while disregarding the actual on-ground realities.
Shukla stated, “A delegation has yet again used this august forum for peddling lies and falsehood. It is habitual for this delegation to resort to disinformation and misinformation,” adding that Pakistan frequently attempts to apply an inaccurate lens to judge the democratic processes of India, the world’s largest democracy.
#IndiaAtUN
🇮🇳’s statement at the General Debate of the Fourth Committee of @UN. General Assembly on Questions relating to Information was delivered by MP Rajiv Shukla @ShuklaRajiv. pic.twitter.com/e7PNiR6K2W— India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) November 6, 2024
The Congress MP highlighted the recent peaceful and participatory elections held in Jammu and Kashmir as evidence of democracy in action. The three-phase assembly elections, completed on October 1, saw strong voter engagement, with 61.38% turnout in Phase 1, 57.31% in Phase 2, and 69.9% in Phase 3. According to Shukla, these figures underscore the confidence the people of Jammu and Kashmir have in India’s democratic institutions, a stark contrast to the disinformation spread by Pakistan.
Shukla further urged Pakistan to engage in more constructive dialogue at the UN rather than pushing a divisive political agenda. He reaffirmed India’s support for the UN Department of Global Communications, praising its efforts to foster peace and counter misinformation. Shukla emphasized, “Together, we will combat the virus of misinformation and create a positive, reliable impact for peace and a better world.”
India’s rebuke follows its recent response to Pakistan’s remarks on Kashmir during a UN Security Council debate on women’s role in peacebuilding. India denounced Pakistan’s attempt as a “mischievous provocation” and highlighted the concerning treatment of minority women in Pakistan.