UNHRC Session Sees Strong Appeals Against Cross-Border Terrorism

At the 60th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, international NGOs delivered strong statements, calling for urgent global intervention against terrorism emanating from Pakistan. This follows the recent massacre in Pahalgam, India, where 26 civilians were killed while on vacation in Jammu and Kashmir.

The attackers, linked to the Pakistan-backed militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, were highlighted as part of an ongoing pattern of state-sponsored terrorism that destabilizes the region. Sai Sampath Mettu from EcoFawn described the attack as a 'direct assault' on fundamental human rights, including the right to life, freedom of movement, and religious practice.

Hansraj Singh from Sambhali Trust decried the massacre as another instance of politically motivated violence intended to spread fear. Javed Ahmad Beigh from RSKS NGO noted that young people in Pakistan are indoctrinated to become agents of violence, citing the case of Tahir, who was killed following his involvement in the Pahalgam attack.

On July 30, 2025, a funeral in absentia was held for Tahir in Kuiyaan village. He was part of the group responsible for the Pahalgam atrocity and died in a confrontation with security forces. Beigh criticized international institutions for their inaction in condemning these acts and holding accountable those who support such crimes against humanity.

The NGOs urged the UNHRC to initiate a mission into Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) to scrutinize those funding and orchestrating terrorism. They emphasized India's commitment to collaborating with the global community to address this persistent threat.

(With inputs from agencies.)