‘Laden Was Hiding Near Pak Military Academy’: India Launches Sharp Attack on Pakistan at UN

New York: India responded after Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's speech on the stage of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. On behalf of India, First Secretary in the United Nations, Petal Gehlot reacted to Pakistan's statement using 'Right to Reply'. She referred to Pakistan's allegations related to terrorism and religious intolerance and said that its own record should also be considered while talking on such issues at the international forum. 

Why did Petal Gehlot mention the anniversary of 9/11?

Petal Gehlot, in her reply, mentioned the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. She said that on such an occasion, issues related to terrorism cannot be ignored. She also mentioned Osama Bin Laden and drew attention towards the old controversies related to Pakistan.

Pakistan has been accused by India in the United Nations of supporting terrorist organisations in the past also. Pakistan rejects these allegations. 

What did India say about Pakistan's army and government?

Gehlot also mentioned the role of the army in Pakistan and the political developments there. She said that before giving speeches on democratic institutions and human values, any country should also look at its domestic situation.

She also raised questions regarding the changes in the Constitution of Pakistan and the system of power. These comments were part of India's response and not any findings issued by the UN.

How did the issue of religious intolerance arise?

The Indian diplomat also cornered Pakistan on the issue of religious intolerance. Raising questions regarding the treatment of minorities, she said that while talking to the international forum on religious freedom and tolerance, the situation within the country should also be kept in mind.

This issue has also come up in the debates between India and Pakistan on the UN platform.

What response did India give on Jammu and Kashmir?

India also reiterated its stand after the issue of Jammu and Kashmir was raised in Shahbaz Sharif's speech. Gehlot said that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and indivisible part of India.
Referring to Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, he raised questions about human rights and political rights of the people there. India has long rejected Pakistan's claims to Kashmir, while Pakistan considers the region disputed.

Why did the two countries come face-to-face again between India and Pakistan in the UN?

India and Pakistan often present their national positions on the international stage in the United Nations General Assembly. This time too, after Shehbaz Sharif's speech, India presented its stand under 'Right to Reply'. Even in the official statement of Pakistan, it was already said that many regional issues including Kashmir would be raised in UNGA. 

Note: The official claims of both the countries are different from each other on many issues related to terrorism, Kashmir and regional security between India and Pakistan. Therefore, it is important to view the allegations as claims by the parties concerned.