UN human rights experts say that reports of cross-border strikes by India into Pakistan after the April 22 Pahalgam attack may violate international law.
A 17-page UN communication dated October 16 and made public on December 15 found that India provided no publicly verifiable evidence linking Pakistan to the attack.
India did not notify the UN Security Council under Article 51 (self-defence), raising concerns about unlawful use of force and potential right-to-life violations.
Experts stressed that counter-terrorism actions must meet the tests of necessity, proportionality, and distinction under international law.
They also expressed serious concern about India placing the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance; the IWT is a binding 1960 water-sharing treaty, and unilateral suspension may breach international obligations.
Disruption of Indus waters could affect millions in Pakistan who rely on the river system for drinking water, agriculture, food security, and livelihoods. Access to safe drinking water is a recognized human right; water should not be used as political pressure.
UN experts asked India to clarify the legal basis for military action and treaty suspension, and to put in place safeguards against humanitarian, environmental, and economic harm. They also urged a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir dispute in line with international law and the principle of self-determination.
Correction note: The report notes the absence of publicly verifiable evidence linking Pakistan to the attack and that notification to the Security Council under Article 51 is in question.
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