Stop state-sponsored terrorism in Kashmir: India to Pakistan

UNITED NATIONS - In a sharp response to Pakistan’s harping on Kashmir, India Wednesday asked Islamabad to stop its state-sponsored militancy and terrorism in “an integral part of India”.

“It is well known that many countries have deep-rooted concerns about the growth and consolidation of militancy and terrorism in Pakistan,” Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna said in his address to the UN general assembly.

“We share these concerns, particularly because Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral part of India, is the target of such Pakistan-sponsored militancy and terrorism,” he said responding to Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi’s call Wednesday for “self-determination through plebiscite” for the people of Kashmir.

“Pakistan must fulfil its solemn commitment of not allowing territory under its control to be used for terrorism directed against India,” said Krishna.

“Credible and firm action by Pakistan against terrorist groups operating from its soil is in the interest of the region as it is in Pakistan’s own interest,” he said adding: “Pakistan cannot impart lessons to us on democracy and human rights.”

“If, however, Pakistan were to live up to its commitment not to allow use of its soil by terrorists acting against India, this would significantly help reduce the trust deficit that impedes the development of better bilateral relations between our two countries,” Krishna said.

“We are neighbours, and as neighbours, we have an obligation to work together.” He said.

In his address, Krishna also talked about the expansion of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), climate change, nuclear disarmament and Afghanistan.

(Arun Kumar can be contacted at arun.kumar@ians.in )