India Challenges UN Over Silence on Pakistan’s Human Rights Record in PoJK

New Delhi, October 15, 2026 India has questioned the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) over its response to human rights concerns in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), demanding clarity on the action taken by Pakistan. Addressing the UN Human Rights Council, Indian diplomat Anuj Swarup highlighted concerns over reported killings, the detention of Awami Action Committee leaders and internet restrictions, while accusing the international body of applying inconsistent standards to human rights issues. Speaking at the council, India highlighted the principles of non-violence and equality associated with Mahatma Gandhi’s freedom movement, stating that these ideals also shaped the Indian Constitution. It maintained that the Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to every citizen, while law enforcement authorities operate within the legal framework and courts remain accessible for addressing grievances. India also criticised what it described as the OHCHR’s “existential selectivity”, pointing out that violent responses to protests in neighbouring countries and the West had gone uncommented. It argued that such double standards weaken confidence in multilateral institutions and reaffirmed its commitment to working with the High Commissioner and OHCHR through constructive engagement based on trust and partnership. Raising specific concerns about PoJK, India referred to previous statements by the OHCHR calling for impartial investigations into killings allegedly involving armed and security forces. The statements also sought legal representation and access to families for detained Awami Action Committee leaders, fair trials, the removal of internet restrictions and meaningful political dialogue to address local grievances. Concluding its statement, India directly questioned the absence of a report on Pakistan’s response, asking, “When can we expect OHCHR to issue a report on the action taken by Government of Pakistan on this.” India urged Pakistan to reflect on the human rights situation in areas under its control, including PoJK and Rawalakot, which it described as being under Pakistan’s illegal occupation.