UNITED NATIONS, May 21: India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Harish Parvathaneni, responded to Pakistan’s envoy raising Jammu and Kashmir by calling it ironic, citing what he described as Pakistan’s “long-tainted record” of genocidal acts.
He referred to United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) data claiming 750 civilian casualties in early 2026 due to cross-border violence attributed largely to Pakistani forces, including airstrikes.
He specifically cited a March strike on a hospital in Kabul, which he said killed and injured hundreds, and alleged mass displacement of civilians due to ongoing violence.
He also referenced historical events such as the 1971 conflict in East Pakistan to underline Pakistan’s record.
India further raised concerns about cross-border terrorism, urging accountability for states that sponsor or support such activities.
It emphasised that terrorism is one of the greatest threats to civilians globally and rejected any justification for attacks on civilians.
The statement also highlighted risks from modern warfare technologies like drones and AI, calling for strict adherence to international humanitarian law and stronger safeguards to protect civilians in conflict zones. (PTI)
