Geneva, Sept. 22 -- Human rights defender Tasleema Akhter, from Jammu and Kashmir, highlighted what she described as a growing contrast in governance, civic space, human rights and development between Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Jammu and Kashmir in India during an intervention at the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva.

Addressing the Council, Akhter said human rights in the present era should contribute to inclusive development, strengthen democratic values and ensure protection of the basic necessities of life.

"Human rights in the present era create inclusive development of individuals, society and nations as a whole, bring in more democratic values and offer protection of the...