India has harshly reprimanded the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, for his statements about Kashmir and Manipur, calling them “unfounded” and “baseless.” The criticism came during Turk’s worldwide update to the 58th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, during which he voiced worry about the circumstances in both areas.
Ambassador Arindam Bagchi, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, stated that India is still a “healthy, vibrant, and pluralistic society,” which contrasts dramatically with the impressions expressed in the report.
Bagchi emphasised substantial progress in Jammu and Kashmir, including high voter turnout in provincial elections, a booming tourism economy, and quick development, which he claimed refuted Turk’s fears.
He further complained about the update’s “oversimplifications of complex issues, sweeping and generalised remarks, usage of loose terminologies, and apparent cherry-picking of situations.” Furthermore, Bagchi advocated for a greater understanding of India’s civilisational ethos, which cherishes variety and openness, and proposed that the Office of the High Commissioner reconsider its approach to addressing the “pervasive unease” it has detected.
Turk’s update advocated for stronger efforts to resolve violence and displacement in Manipur through dialogue and human rights, as well as worries about the use of restrictive legislation against human rights advocates and media in Kashmir.
However, his report made no mention of Pakistan, prompting accusations for selective emphasis. India’s answer emphasises its commitment to democratic institutions and a strong civic space, while doubting the UN’s impartiality and knowledge of India’s complex socioeconomic milieu.
