UN calls for de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, India rejects UN probe; UN Security Council condemns attacks in North Mali; Intergovernmental Committee to work on treaty to reduce use of mercury; UN Human Rights report highlights hazard
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  • According to reports, following the escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan after two Indian soldiers were brutally killed by Pakistani troops, the UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) urged both the countries to respect the ceasefire and “de-escalate” tensions over the recent cross-border firings through dialogue.1 Meanwhile, utilising its current position as the president of the UNSC, Pakistan has pushed the UN option to “resolve” the ceasefire violations by its army on the LoC. 2 But India has rejected Pakistan’s proposal and said that it would not agree to “internationalise the issue or allow the UN to hold an inquiry”. 3

    In another development, according to reports, the UN Security Council expressed grave concern over the military movements and attacks by terrorists and military groups in the northern part of Mali, especially the city of Konna. The members in a press statement said that the serious deterioration of the situation causes even more instability and threatens the integrity of Mali. 4

    Reports noted that at a session organised by UN Environment Programme, the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee will work to prepare a globally binding instrument on mercury. The treaty will include actions to reduce the supply and trade of mercury, its use in products and atmospheric emissions and ultimately reduce human exposure to mercury globally. 5

    In other developments, a report published by the working group on Human Rights in India and the UN (WGHR) gives an account of the unhealthy and exploitative conditions of mine workers in the state of Rajasthan. The report suggests that minimal wages, poor working conditions and lack of training are rampant in the mining sector of the state. The study also noted that the lack of government monitoring and legal provisions perpetuate such conditions. 6

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