UN Experts Warn India’s Cross-Border Strikes May Violate International Law; Scrutiny Over Indus Waters Treaty

UN human rights experts warn that reported cross-border strikes by India 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, the document finds no publicly verifiable evidence linking Pakistan to the attack.

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

Experts stress counter-terrorism actions must meet necessity, proportionality, and distinction under international law.

Experts expressed serious concern over India holding the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance; the IWT is a binding 1960 treaty, and unilateral suspension may breach international obligations.

Disruption of Indus waters could affect millions in Pakistan reliant 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.

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 the principle of self-determination.