At the launch of the Victims of Terrorism Association Network (VoTAN) at the United Nations, India delivered a strong statement condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, calling it the worst civilian attack since the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
Yojna Patel, India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, said,
“The Pahalgam terrorist attack represents the largest number of civilian casualties since the horrific 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008. Having been a victim of cross-border terrorism for decades, India fully understands the long-lasting impact such acts have on victims, their families and society.”
Patel underlined India’s long-standing struggle against terrorism and the deep scars it leaves on societies.
Expressing gratitude for the global support, she added,
“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, Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This is a testimony to the international community’s zero tolerance for terrorism.”
Highlighting the growing global consensus against terrorism, Patel called for accountability in international counter-terrorism efforts:
“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 reiterated India’s firm stance, saying:
“Acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever, and by whomever committed.”
Patel welcomed the creation of the Victims of Terrorism Association (VoTAN), emphasizing:
“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 stressed that victim-centric approaches must drive the global fight against terrorism:
“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.”
During her speech, Patel also called out the misuse of UN platforms by unnamed countries—clearly alluding to Pakistan:
“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 referenced a recent, widely reported admission by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khwaja Asif, stating:
“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 remarked:
“This open confession surprises no one and exposes Pakistan as a rogue state, fueling global terrorism and destabilising the region.”
Concluding with a sharp reminder to the global community, she said:
“The world can no longer turn a blind eye. I have nothing further to add.”
Through Ambassador Patel’s statement, India reinforced its call for united global action against terrorism and its commitment to placing victims at the heart of all counter-terrorism strategies.