UN human rights experts say India?s reported cross-border strikes into Pakistan after the April 22 Pahalgam attack may violate international law. A 17-page UN communication dated Oct 16 and made public on Dec 15 found India did not provide publicly verifiable evidence linking Pakistan to the attack.

They note that India did not notify the UN Security Council under Article 51 (self-defence), raising concerns about unlawful use of force and right-to-life violations.

UN experts stressed that counter-terrorism actions must meet the legal standards of necessity, proportionality, and distinction under international law.

Experts expressed serious concern over India holding the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance. The IWT is a binding 1960 water-sharing treaty; 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, and water should not be used as political pressure.

UN experts asked India to clarify the legal basis for military action, treaty suspension, and safeguards against humanitarian, environmental, and economic harm. They also urged a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir dispute in line with international law and self-determination.

Corrections and context

• Correction: The description reflects claims attributed to UN human rights experts; the UN has not independently verified all details of the cross-border occurrences.
• Correction: The Indus Waters Treaty framework and potential suspension are verified as concerns raised by the experts and may be subject to further interpretation by the UN and the parties involved.