UN human rights experts say India's reported cross-border strikes into Pakistan after the April 22 Pahalgam attack may violate international law. In a 17-page UN communication dated Oct 16 and made public on Dec 15, experts say there is no publicly verifiable evidence linking Pakistan to the attack.
Counter-terrorism actions must meet the standards of necessity, proportionality, and distinction under international law. The experts express serious concern over India holding the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, noting that the IWT is a binding 1960 treaty and unilateral suspension may breach international obligations. Disruption of Indus waters could affect millions in Pakistan who rely on the river 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.
The experts asked India to clarify the legal basis for military action, the treaty suspension, and safeguards against humanitarian, environmental, and economic harm, and urged a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir dispute in line with international law and self-determination.
