India strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, terming it the worst civilian attack since the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Delivering India's statement at the launch of the Victims of Terrorism Association Network (VoTAN) at the United Nations, India's Deputy Permanent Representative, Ambassador Yojna Patel, called for global unity and accountability in the fight against terrorism.

"The Pahalgam terrorist attack represents the largest number of civilian casualties since the horrific 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008," Patel said. "As a country that has faced cross-border terrorism for decades, India fully understands the deep and lasting impact such acts have on victims, families, and society."

Ambassador Patel expressed India's gratitude for the strong and unequivocal support shown by leaders and governments worldwide following the Pahalgam attack. "This solidarity is a testimony to the international community's zero tolerance towards terrorism," she noted.

Emphasizing the need for collective action, Patel stressed that the perpetrators, organisers, financiers, and sponsors of terrorist acts must be held accountable and brought to justice. She reaffirmed India's position that terrorism is criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of motive, location, or perpetrator.

Patel also welcomed the launch of VoTAN, describing it as a vital step towards creating a safe space for victims of terrorism to be heard and supported. "Victim-centric initiatives like VoTAN are crucial to strengthening the global response to terrorism and ensuring that victims remain at the heart of our efforts," she said.

In her remarks, Patel criticized the misuse of the UN platform by a particular delegation, indirectly referring to Pakistan. She highlighted the recent public confession by Pakistan's Defence Minister Khwaja Asif, who admitted on national television that Pakistan had historically supported, trained, and funded terrorist groups.

"This open confession, widely reported, reaffirms what the world has long known," Patel said. "It exposes Pakistan as a rogue state, responsible for fueling terrorism and destabilizing the region."

Patel concluded by urging the international community to take a firm and unified stance against states that sponsor terrorism. "The world can no longer turn a blind eye," she asserted.

The statement was delivered during the official launch of the Victims of Terrorism Association Network at the United Nations headquarters.