PERMANENT MISSION OF INDIA

GENEVA

30th SESSION OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

Right of Reply by India

in response to the Statement by Pakistan under the Agenda Item 3

(17 September 2015)

Mr. President

My delegation wishes to exercise its right of reply in response to a statement made by Pakistan under this Agenda Item.

Once again the representative of Pakistan chooses to misuse the Human Rights Council to make tendentious references about internal matters pertaining to the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir- A part of the territories of our State remain under the forcible and illegal occupation of Pakistan. It is unfortunate that in recent times the people of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir have become victims of sectarian conflict, terrorism and extreme economic hardship because of Pakistan's occupation and discriminatory policies.

Pakistan's continued support for terror groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir is the main challenge to protecting the human rights of our citizens in the State. Pakistan's selective approach in tackling terror groups operating outside Pakistan and within, despite the numerous solemn promises made, including to the parents of innocent Pakistani children massacred in Peshawar on 16 December 2014, underscores the continuing unwillingness to acknowledge the truth.

Mr. President,

We do not accept attempts by Pakistan to denigrate the democratic choice that has been regularly exercised by the people of Jammu & Kashmir over the last six decades since our independence. The 65% voter turnout in the most recent elections in Jammu and Kashmir, despite the threats from Pakistan-based terror groups, is a resounding response by our people.

Thank you Mr. President.

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