National: India has reacted strongly to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, labeling it the most devastating assault on civilians since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
Speaking at the United Nations during the launch of the Victims of Terrorism Association Network (VoTAN), India’s Deputy Permanent Representative Yojna Patel underscored the critical need for a unified international response to combat terrorism.
“The Pahalgam terrorist attack represents the largest number of civilian casualties since the horrific 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008,” stated Patel, emphasizing India’s extensive experience in confronting cross-border terrorism and the profound impact such acts have on individuals, families, and society as a whole.
India’s statement at the UN comes at a time when global resolve against terrorism is gaining momentum. Patel expressed gratitude for the widespread international support received, noting, “India deeply appreciates and values the strong, unequivocal support and solidarity extended by leaders and governments across the world in the wake of the recent terrorist attack at Pahalgam.”
Highlighting the obligations under international law, Patel asserted that those responsible for acts of terror must be brought to justice. “As the UN Security Council in its statement has said, perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of reprehensible acts of terrorism must be held accountable and brought to justice,” she affirmed.
Reiterating India’s long-standing stance, Patel declared that terrorism is unjustifiable under any circumstances. “Acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever, and by whomever committed,” she added.
In a strong show of support for victim-centric approaches, Patel lauded the establishment of the Victims of Terrorism Association Network as a significant step forward. “The establishment of the Victims of Terrorism Association is a significant step in this regard. It will create a structured, safe space for victims to be heard and supported,” she explained.
Patel stressed the importance of keeping victims at the forefront of counter-terrorism strategies, asserting, “India believes that initiatives like VoTAN are essential to strengthening the global response to terrorism, ensuring that victims remain at the centre of our collective efforts.”
Turning her attention to the political exploitation of UN platforms, Patel delivered a sharp rebuke to Pakistan, without naming the country directly. “It is unfortunate that one particular delegation has chosen to misuse and undermine this forum to indulge in propaganda and make baseless allegations against India,” she stated.
She referenced recent widely reported admissions by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khwaja Asif. “The whole world has heard Pakistan’s defence minister, Khwaja Asif, admitting and confessing Pakistan’s history of supporting, training and funding terrorist organisations in a recent television interview,” Patel pointed out.
Describing Pakistan as a “rogue state,” Patel contended that its actions have fueled terrorism and destabilized the region. “This open confession surprises no one and exposes Pakistan as a rogue state, fueling global terrorism and destabilising the region,” she asserted.
Concluding her address, Patel urged the international community to take decisive action. “The world can no longer turn a blind eye. I have nothing further to add,” she concluded.
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