India delivered a sharp diplomatic rebuttal to Pakistan during the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, dismissing allegations over Jammu and Kashmir as baseless and politically motivated. Exercising its Right of Reply, India’s representative Anupama Singh accused Islamabad of spreading misinformation while ignoring its own domestic challenges.
Singh took particular aim at Pakistan’s criticism of infrastructure development in the region, pointing to the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge — the world’s highest railway bridge — as a visible symbol of progress. In a pointed remark that drew attention in diplomatic circles, she said that if the bridge were imaginary, Pakistan must be “hallucinating or living in La-la land.” The project forms a key part of India’s effort to improve connectivity and economic prospects in the mountainous territory.
India also rejected accusations echoed by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, calling the grouping an “echo chamber” for one member state. Reaffirming New Delhi’s long-standing position, Singh stated that Jammu and Kashmir “was, is, and will always remain an integral and inalienable part of India,” adding that the region’s accession in 1947 was legal, final, and consistent with international law.
Highlighting governance and economic investment, India contrasted development spending in the region with Pakistan’s financial situation. Singh noted that the budget allocated for Jammu and Kashmir now exceeds Pakistan’s recent bailout package from the International Monetary Fund, presenting it as evidence of sustained growth and stability rather than conflict.
Addressing democratic concerns, India pointed to strong voter participation in recent elections in the region. According to the Indian statement, the turnout reflects public confidence in democratic institutions and a desire for development over violence. Singh also criticized Pakistan’s political record, suggesting that a country where civilian governments often struggle to complete full terms is in a weak position to lecture others on democracy.
In her concluding remarks, Singh accused Pakistan of attempting to destabilize the region through state-sponsored terrorism and urged it to focus on resolving internal crises instead of using international forums for political posturing. The exchange marked another episode in the long-running diplomatic contest between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, where global platforms frequently become stages for competing narratives over Kashmir, security, and human rights.
Summary — Key Highlights:
India rejected Pakistan’s allegations at the UNHRC as propaganda; the Chenab Rail Bridge was cited as proof of development in Jammu and Kashmir; India said regional spending exceeds Pakistan’s IMF bailout package; high voter turnout was presented as evidence of democratic legitimacy; New Delhi accused Islamabad of supporting instability while ignoring its own domestic issues.