India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Harish Parvathaneni, addressed the Security Council on May 21, strongly condemning Pakistan for attacks beyond its borders and interference in India’s internal matters. He emphasized that global attention and accountability are critical to protecting civilians and upholding international humanitarian standards.

Historical Context of Pakistan’s Violence

Parvathaneni recalled Pakistan’s role in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, including Operation Searchlight, highlighting the mass violence and atrocities that led to hundreds of thousands of civilian deaths and sexual violence against women. He underscored that historical acts of violence reflect a pattern of externalizing internal failures and warned that the world cannot ignore such precedents when assessing current conflicts.

Recent Cross-Border Attacks in Afghanistan

The Indian envoy condemned the March 2026 airstrike on Kabul’s Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital during Ramadan, which resulted in 269 deaths and over 120 injuries, as reported by UNAMA. He stressed that targeting medical facilities is a violation of humanitarian law and described the attack as barbaric. Parvathaneni called for the UN Security Council to prioritize civilian safety and the protection of essential services.

Global Accountability and Civilian Protection

India urged the international community to hold states sponsoring cross-border terrorism accountable. Parvathaneni highlighted the importance of safeguarding medical care, ensuring humanitarian access, enforcing compliance with international law, and managing emerging technologies responsibly to prevent civilian harm.

Response to Pakistan’s Claims on Kashmir

India’s address came in response to Pakistan raising the Jammu and Kashmir issue at the UN debate. Parvathaneni dismissed Pakistan’s statements as ironic, given its history of mass atrocities. He reiterated India’s commitment to upholding humanitarian law, protecting civilians, and ensuring that global peace is prioritized over political rhetoric.

Emphasis on International Law and Humanitarian Principles

India’s speech combined condemnation of historical and recent atrocities, emphasizing that accountability and civilian protection must guide international responses. The address was a firm call to the UN and the global community to uphold humanitarian law and enforce measures that prevent further suffering caused by cross-border violence.