India on Monday tore into Pakistan over Pahalgam attack, flagging Pakistan Defence Minister Khwaja Asif's "open confession" of supporting terrorist organisations. Speaking at the launch of the Victims of Terrorism Association Network (VoTAN), Ambassador Yojna Patel, India's Deputy Permanent Representative at the UN said: “It's unfortunate that one particular delegation has chosen to misuse and undermine this forum to indulge in propaganda and make baseless allegations against India." #IndiaAtUN Amb. DPR @PatelYojna delivered India’s statement at the launch of the Victims of Terrorism Association Network. (1/2) @MEAIndia @UN pic.twitter.com/1fd7arhjXy — India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) April 28, 2025 Referring to a recent television interview of Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khwaja Asif where he was heard "admitting and confessing Pakistan’s history of supporting, training and funding terrorist organisations", Patel stated: "This open confession surprises no one and exposes Pakistan as a rogue state, fuelling global terrorism and destabilising the region. The world can no longer turn a blind eye.” Patel said that India appreciated the unequivocal support and solidarity extended by leaders and governments across the world after the deadly Pahalgam attack. "This is a testimony to the international community’s zero tolerance to terrorism. In pahalgam, the terrorist attack represent the largest number of civilian casualties since the horrific 26/11 Mumbai attacks 2008." She acknowledged that the terror attacks leave long-lasting impacts on the victims, their families and even the society. "Having been a victim of cross-border terrorism for decades, India fully understands the long-lasting impact such acts have on the victims, their families, and the society," Patel said. "As the UN Security Council in its statement has said, perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of reprehensible acts of terrorism must be held accountable and brought to justice. Acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, whenever, wherever, and by whomever committed." "India believes that initiatives like VoTAN are essential to strengthening the global response to terrorism, ensuring that victims remain at the centre of our collective efforts,” Patel added.
