India on Tuesday expressed disappointment over “unwarranted remarks” made by the UN human rights chief on Jammu & Kashmir, saying her comments do not reflect the ground reality and any shortcomings in upholding human rights must be addressed in an impartial manner and anchored in non-interference in a country’s internal affairs.

“We take note of references to India in the oral update by the High Commissioner and express our disappointment over her unwarranted remarks on the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, which do not reflect the ground reality,” Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs Reenat Sandhu said on Tuesday while delivering India’s statement under the General Debate on Oral Update of the High Commissioner at the 48th Session of the Human Rights Council. Sandhu said India’s approach to global promotion and protection of human rights is based on “our own experience as a pluralistic and inclusive society and vibrant democracy.”

She said India believes that promotion and protection of human rights are best pursued through dialogue, consultation  among States and through provision of technical assistance and capacity building.

“Any shortcomings in upholding human rights must be addressed in a transparent and impartial manner, anchored in respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs of States,” she said.

UN high commissioner for human rights Michelle Bachelet on Monday described as “worrying” India’s use of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act as well as “frequent” temporary communication blackouts in J&K.