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India has assumed the presidency of the powerful United Nations Security Council for the month of August. This will frustrate Pakistan’s plan of raising the Kashmir issue at the global forum and will also bring on a collision course with China.
It could be a mere coincidence that India has assumed the presidency on the second anniversary of the annexation of occupied Jammu and Kashmir where a communication siege remains enforced. The timing of India’s presidency is also important as the deadline nears for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan.
Furthermore, Indian Prime Minister Modi will preside over a meeting of the UNSC albeit virtually later this month. This would be an ideal opportunity to malign Pakistan at the forum. India has been a non-permanent member of UNSC several times before and will assume presidency next year during its term but this is the first time the Indian political leadership will preside over its meeting.
The Foreign Office has expressed concerns and cautioned India to act fairly and abide by the relevant rules and norms governing the UNSC. It is certain that Pakistan will not be able to seek any discussion on the situation in Occupied Kashmir which has been raised on multiple occasions in the past two years. Pakistan has seen India as a spoiler for regional peace and helming the powerful UNSC will frustrate efforts even more.
India said it will be hosting events related to maritime security and counterterrorism, which shows that it will use its tenure against regional rivals China and Pakistan. The maritime security debate will certainly be used to criticize China’s role in the South China Sea, a sensitive topic that can flare hostilities in the region. The briefing on counter-terrorism is an attempt to raise accusations against Pakistan.
The UNSC is a powerful body with a mandate to maintain international peace and security. It also has a responsibility to investigate, recommend measures and settle disputes which causes friction among states. By assuming the presidency, India should adhere to international law and the functions of the United Nations rather than using the auspicious body to spread the narrow interests of the BJP regime.
