UN HCHR's comments on J&K 'unwarranted': India

India reacted strongly to the comments by UN HCHR, terming these as "unwarranted" and "irresponsible" and bluntly told it that New Delhi does not need "any advice".

India on Thursday reacted strongly to the comments by UN High Commission for Human Rights (HCHR) on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, terming these as "unwarranted" and "irresponsible" and bluntly told it that New Delhi does not need "any advice".

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New Delhi pointed out to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) that terrorists have been targeting innocent people in the state, like in Jammu on Wednesday, and the security forces have been making efforts to ensure that no innocent lives are lost and in this endeavour laid down their lives.

"We regret that the OHCHR has issued a statement on the situation in Jammu & Kashmir. This is uncalled for and irresponsible," External Affairs Ministry spokesman Navtej Sarna said in New Delhi.

"India does not need any advice in respect of the protection and promotion of human rights of its citizens," he asserted.

The UN body, in its first comment since protests and violence erupted over Amarnath land transfer issue in Jammu and Kashmir, voiced concern over civilian casualties and asked India to conduct "a thorough and independent investigation" into all the incidents.

Sarna said the OHCHR should be aware that Jammu & Kashmir has been a "victim of terrorist violence" for almost two decades and all through this period, the authorities have acted within the law and with restraint.