UN Responds to Palestinian Journalist’s Question on Kashmir Amid PoK Protests

The United Nations has reiterated its position on the Kashmir issue.

After a Palestinian journalist raised a question on India’s abrogation of Article 370 during a briefing involving UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Abdul Hamid questioned the UN’s view on New Delhi’s 2019 decision to end Jammu and Kashmir’s special status, alleging that the move altered the region’s political status and violated United Nations Security Council resolutions.

Responding to the query, Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, said the organisation’s position on Kashmir remained unchanged.

“You’re certainly aware of the Security Council’s resolutions dating back to 1949 concerning the status of Kashmir, and those resolutions have not changed.”

Haq also referred to the UN’s concerns regarding human rights in the region.

“Regarding our concerns, you’ll have seen what was expressed, including by the High Commission for Human Rights, regarding our concerns that all basic rights are respected for the people of Kashmir.”

The remarks came as the Kashmir issue was once again being discussed at the UN amid protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir over economic hardship, governance concerns and political grievances.

UN reiterates position on Kashmir

The UN’s reference was linked to Security Council resolutions dating back to 1948-49, including the January 5, 1949 resolution passed by the United Nations Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP), which outlined provisions for a proposed plebiscite in Kashmir.

India, however, maintains that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of the country. New Delhi rejects any third-party role or international mediation, stating that the Kashmir issue must be addressed through bilateral mechanisms.

India has also repeatedly accused Pakistan of occupying parts of the former state illegally and has rejected attempts to challenge its sovereignty over the region.

Protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir draw UN attention

The question at the UN came amid unrest in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where protests have taken place over rising prices, shortages, administrative issues and allegations of political discrimination.

The demonstrations have led to clashes between protesters and security forces, with reports of civilian and security personnel deaths.

Earlier, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed concern over the situation through spokesperson Jeremy Laurence. The UN called for calm, restraint and independent investigations into the deaths linked to the protests.

The rights body also raised concerns over restrictions on public gatherings, internet access and the government’s action against the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), saying such measures could affect freedoms related to expression, peaceful assembly and association.

The UN urged authorities and stakeholders to pursue meaningful and inclusive dialogue to address grievances.

The exchange at the UN briefing placed the Kashmir issue back in focus, with the organisation maintaining its stated position while highlighting human rights concerns and the need for dialogue.