India accuses Pakistan of dubious conduct at UN meeting
What's the story
India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), Ruchira Kamboj, has vehemently opposed Pakistan's destructive remarks at the UN, saying that it harbors the "most dubious track record" in all aspects.
Kamboj's response came after Pakistan's UN envoy Munir Akram made remarks against India, including references to Kashmir, the Citizenship Amendment Act, and the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, during his address to the UN General Assembly meeting on 'Culture of Peace.'
Tensions
Kamboj emphasized on the need for constructive dialogue
"We would strongly encourage that delegation to align with the central principles of respect and diplomacy that must always guide our discussions," she said.
Kamboj said that terrorism goes against the culture of peace and that it "sows discord, breeds hostility, and undermines the universal values of respect and harmony that underpin cultural and religious traditions worldwide."
She emphasized the importance of healthy discussion and advocated for adherence to respect and diplomatic values.
Sacred sites
We are concerned by increasing attacks on sacred sites: Kamboj
Kamboj also stressed the importance of cultivating a culture of peace in the midst of geopolitical tensions, emphasizing the need for unity in dealing with attacks on sacred places.
"We are particularly concerned by the escalating attacks on sacred sites, including churches, monasteries, gurudwaras, mosques, temples and synagogues," she said.
"It is crucial that our discussions therefore forthrightly address these issues...We must tackle these challenges...and ensure that they are central to our policy, dialogues and international engagements," she added.
Ahimsa
'India has historically been a refuge for persecuted faiths'
Lastly, Kamboj stated that the Ahimsa doctrine, championed by Mahatma Gandhi, remains at the heart of India's commitment to peace.
She said India is not only the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism but also a stronghold for Islam, Judaism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism.
"It has historically been a refuge for persecuted faiths, illustrating its long-standing embrace of diversity," she said.