Following India’s move to revoke the constitutionally mandated special status of the disputed Kashmir region under its control, the United Nations Monday expressed concern over rising South Asian tensions and urged restraint.
“We are following with concern the tense situation in the region,” a top UN spokesman said amid escalation of tensions in the region.
“We are very concerned about the rise of tensions,” the Secretary-General’s Spokesman Stephane Dujarric added.
He was responding to questions at a briefing at UN Headquarters in New York.
When questioned whether the UN chief intended to play a role in resolving the regional crisis created by the Indian action, he said, “As for the Secretary-General’s role, he has often expressed his position on that and his position remains the same.”
The secretary-general has all along maintained that India and Pakistan should resolve all outstanding disputes between the two countries, including Kashmir, through dialogue.
Antonio Guterres has also consistently offered his good offices should both parties agree.
Pakistan has always welcomed his good offices offer, but India rejected it.
At the briefing, the UN spokesman said the world body is also aware of reports of restrictions in Indian occupied Kashmir, obviously referring to the Indian authorities placing the entire region under lockdown early Monday.
Pakistan and India have engaged in cross-Line-of-Control firing. Islamabad has accused India of using banned cluster ammunition.
