India launched a veiled attack on Pakistan at the UN General Assembly, saying Islamabad has the “most dubious track record” in all aspects, as it criticized “disastrous and damaging” comments made by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN.
His comments come after Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Munir Akram made remarks against India, including references to Kashmir, the BJP, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Indian Muslims.
In her address on the agenda item ‘Culture of Peace’ at the UN General Assembly meeting, Ruchira Kamboj said that the culture of peace is deeply rooted in India’s rich history, diverse traditions and profound philosophical principles. He called the principle of nonviolence “the foundation of India’s commitment to peace.”
Kamboj said, “In this Assembly, as we strive to develop a culture of peace amid these challenging times, our focus remains steadfast on constructive dialogue. Thus we choose to ignore the comments of a certain delegation, which not only lack civility but also hinder our collective efforts due to their destructive and harmful nature.
He said, “We would strongly encourage that delegation to engage with the essential principles of respect and diplomacy that should always guide our discussions or is it too much to ask of a country that is in all aspects of its own Has the most dubious track record.”
In his remarks, Kamboj said India is concerned by the increasing attacks on churches, monasteries, gurudwaras, mosques, temples and synagogues and said these acts require a “swift and united response” from the global community.
Kamboj said, “In our world today, we face significant challenges arising from geopolitical tensions and uneven development. The increasing intolerance, discrimination and violence on the basis of religion or belief indeed demands our immediate attention. We are particularly concerned by the increasing attacks on holy sites including churches, monasteries, gurudwaras, mosques, temples and synagogues.
“Such acts require a swift and united response from the global community. It is therefore important that our discussions consider these issues candidly as opposed to political exigencies. We must tackle these challenges head-on and ensure they are resolved. It is the center of our policy, dialogue and international engagements,” he said.
India’s envoy to the United Nations said terrorism is in direct opposition to the culture of peace and creates discord and gives rise to hostility. He called for the member countries to work together to promote a genuine culture of peace.
She said, “I would also say that terrorism is in direct opposition to the culture of peace and the core teachings of all religions which advocate compassion, understanding and co-existence. It creates discord, breeds hostility and undermines the universal values of respect and harmony that underpin cultural and religious traditions around the world. It is essential for Member States to work together actively to promote a genuine culture of peace and to see the world as one united family, as my country strongly believes.
He stressed that the importance of peace is “paramount” in today’s global scenario. He further said, “It supports dialogue over discord, urging nations to promote diplomacy and communication above confrontation or war. This is especially relevant as we are dealing with ongoing conflicts around the world that demand open communication dialogue and mutual respect to establish lasting peace.
Emphasizing that ancient Indian texts promote values of harmony and compassion, Ruchira Kamboj said, “As far as my country, India, is concerned, the culture of peace comes from its rich history, diverse traditions and deep philosophical The principles are deeply ingrained. Ancient Indian texts such as the Vedas and Upanishads promote the values of harmony, compassion and non-violence, principles that have shaped the ethos of my country.
Kamboj said that the cultural mosaic of India is a proof of tolerance and co-existence. He said that festivals like Diwali, Eid, Christmas and Nowruz transcend religious boundaries.
He said, “The principle of non-violence espoused by Mahatma Gandhi remains the foundation of India’s commitment to peace. And with its remarkable religious and linguistic diversity, India’s cultural mosaic is a testament to tolerance and coexistence. Festivals like Diwali, Eid, Christmas and Nowruz celebrate the joys shared among different communities, transcending religious boundaries. The country’s myriad languages, dialects and cuisines, along with its rich tapestry of races, colors and landscapes, contribute to the resilience and richness of India’s overall culture.
Emphasizing that India has historically been a refuge for persecuted faiths, Kamboj said, “India is the birthplace not only of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, but also of Islam, Judaism, Christianity, And it is also a stronghold of Parsi religion. It has been a refuge for historically persecuted faiths, reflecting its long-standing embrace of diversity.”
He commended Bangladesh for proposing a follow-up to the Declaration and Program of Action, which India proudly co-sponsors. He said that India is dedicated to upholding the ideals of humanity, democracy and non-violence. He said this is a reference to a quote
Kamboj said, “In keeping with its civilizational values, India is dedicated to upholding the ideals of humanity, democracy and non-violence. Mr. President, I would like to conclude with a profound quote from our sacred Bhagavad Gita which captures the essence of the culture of peace. I quote, ‘When a man responds to the joys and sorrows of others as if they were his own, he has attained the highest state of spiritual union.’
