New York On the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, the United Nations stated that the fundamental rights of the region’s people must be respected. The statement comes shortly after India observed the anniversary of the landmark constitutional amendment. On August 5, 2019, the Indian government revoked Article 370—which previously granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir—and reorganized the region into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. UN Statement on Kashmir and Security Council Resolutions Responding to media queries regarding the status of Kashmir, a UN spokesperson remarked: “You are aware of the 1949 Security Council resolutions on the situation in Kashmir… The High Commissioner for Human Rights had previously expressed our concern that the fundamental rights of the people of Kashmir must be respected.” The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) had earlier raised concerns over restrictions, including internet suspensions, imposed in the valley following the 2019 decision, emphasizing the need to safeguard civil liberties. India’s Firm Position on Article 370 India has consistently asserted that the removal of Article 370 is strictly an internal and constitutional affair. Bilateral Framework: Under the 1972 Simla Agreement and the 1999 Lahore Declaration, India considers all issues related to Kashmir strictly bilateral and firmly rejects any third-party mediation or interference. Countering Propaganda: While Pakistan attempts to raise the dispute across international forums and seek external intervention, India maintains that foreign entities have no locus standi in its internal matters. Post navigation US Lawmaker Warns India: FCRA Bill Changes Could Strain Ties With Washington
