India hits back at Pakistan for its criticism regarding the recent Kashmir elections, highlighting the democratic process in the region. Eldos Mathew Punnoose, a counsellor at India’s UN Mission, stated that Pakistan’s disappointment stems from its history of “sham elections” and political suppression.
“Given their tainted democratic record, Pakistan considers real democratic exercises as a sham,” Punnoose said, addressing remarks made by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative Munir Akram during a debate at the UN General Assembly’s Special Political and Decolonization Committee.
Punnoose pointed out that election results were recently announced in Jammu and Kashmir, where millions of voters exercised their rights and elected their leaders. “It was only last week that election results were announced,” he noted, emphasizing that over six million voters participated.
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He added that the elections, the first since the revocation of Kashmir’s special status in 2019, saw the opposition coalition of the National Conference and Congress defeating the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.
Pakistan Had Described Kashmir Elections ‘Sham’
In response to Akram’s description of the election as a “sham,” Punnoose asked Pakistan to address its own violations of human rights in Pakistan-occupied Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh (PoJKL). “The world is witness to the divisive activities that Pakistan undertakes daily,” he said.
Punnoose also criticized Pakistan’s global reputation, stating, “It is ironic that a country infamous for state-sponsored terrorism casts aspersions on the world’s largest democracy.” He referenced various attacks orchestrated by Pakistan against India, including targeting Parliament and marketplaces.
“India symbolizes pluralism, diversity, and democracy,” he asserted, contrasting it with Pakistan, which he described as a nation marked by “terrorism, parochialism, and persecution.” He highlighted the regular targeting of religious and ethnic minorities in Pakistan.
Finally, Punnoose advised Pakistan to focus on its internal issues rather than meddling in the affairs of neighboring countries. He noted the imprisonment of Imran Khan and supporters during Pakistan’s national elections in February. Which resulted in restriction of ability to campaign in a violent and controlled environment.
