India has firmly defended Operation Sindoor during a United Nations Security Council debate, citing the need to hold accountable the sponsors of the Pahalgam terror attack.
India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, P Harish, addressed the Council on 23 July, stating that the operation was launched in line with the 25 April UNSC statement, which had unanimously emphasised the need to act against those who fund or support terrorism.
According to Harish, Operation Sindoor was ‘focused, measured, and non-escalatory’. It specifically targeted terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
He said the operation reflected international consensus on the issue and upheld India’s right to defend itself from cross-border terrorism.
Harish warned that the nature of modern conflicts has significantly evolved. He pointed out the rising influence of non-state actors, often used as proxies by states.
These groups benefit from international funding, weapons trafficking, and radical ideologies, all made more dangerous by digital technology and social media platforms.
Pakistan Raises Kashmir in UN Debate
Earlier, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, who presided over the open debate, raised concerns over Kashmir and India’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty.
India viewed the debate, titled ‘Multilateralism and Peaceful Settlement of Disputes’, as a backdoor attempt to bring in third-party intervention on Kashmir.
Dar criticised the Council’s performance, claiming that it had failed to act on its past resolutions, especially on Kashmir. He said that selective application of Council mandates and double standards had damaged the UN’s credibility.
Responding to Pakistan, Harish reminded the Council that UN Resolution 47 of 1948 first required Pakistan to withdraw its forces and support to militants in Kashmir, a condition it has never fulfilled.
He also noted that people in Indian-administered Kashmir have continued to participate in democratic elections, reinforcing their constitutional link with India.
Harish emphasised that the involved parties should resolve disputes themselves under Chapter VI of the UN Charter. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to national sovereignty and peaceful resolution through mutual consent.
In his concluding remarks, Harish addressed the urgent need for reforming the UN Security Council.
He highlighted growing doubts over the UN’s effectiveness and representativeness. Referring to India’s G-20 presidency, he proudly noted India’s contribution to global inclusivity by enabling the African Union’s inclusion in the G-20 platform.
India’s stand at the UN reflects its growing confidence on the global stage and determination to combat terrorism with international backing.
At the same time, it continues to advocate for a more representative and effective multilateral system.
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