The minister said the UN official was asked a very meaningful question.

Trivandrum:

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday dismissed recent comments by senior United Nations officials on India’s elections, saying he did not need a global body to tell India’s elections should be “free and fair”.

His comments came in response to queries on a statement by the UN chief’s spokesman, who said they “hope” that in India, people’s “political and civil rights” are protected and everyone can live with “freedom and fairness” Way to vote” “Atmosphere.

Jaishankar, who is here to campaign for his ministerial colleague and Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Rajiv Chandrasekhar in the Lok Sabha polls, also said comments made by UN officials last week on India’s elections were To answer a “very important question” at a press conference. Briefing at the United Nations.

“I don’t need the United Nations to tell me that our elections should be free and fair. I have the people of India. The people of India will ensure free and fair elections. So, don’t worry,” the minister told reporters during an interaction with reporters here.

Last week, UN Secretary-General Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric was asked about India’s “political tensions” ahead of upcoming national elections over the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the freezing of the opposition Congress. turmoil”. Bank Account.

Mr Dujarric said: “We very much hope that in India, as in any country where elections are taking place, everyone’s rights are protected, including political and civil rights, and that everyone can participate in an atmosphere of freedom and fairness. vote.” said.

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