India Labels Pakistan a ‘Rogue State’ at UN Over Defence Minister’s Terror Confession

India has labeled Pakistan as a "rogue state" at the United Nations, following the admission by Pakistani Defence Minister Khwaja Asif of his country's involvement in training and funding terrorist groups. This statement comes in the wake of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, which took the lives of 26 people.

India's deputy permanent representative at the UN Yojna Patel. (PTI)

Pakistan’s Defence Minister’s Admission

In a recent interview with Sky News, Pakistani Defence Minister Khwaja Asif confessed that Pakistan has been involved in supporting and funding terrorist groups. His statement did not come as a surprise to India, which has long accused Pakistan of fueling terrorism. India’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Yojna Patel, highlighted this admission during a speech, asserting that it exposed Pakistan as a “rogue state” that has been destabilizing the region and supporting global terrorism.

Patel further condemned Pakistan for misusing international forums to spread propaganda against India, referencing the defence minister’s televised interview as proof of Pakistan’s troubling history with terrorism. She emphasized that the world can no longer ignore Pakistan's role in supporting terrorist organizations.

Impact of Terrorism and India’s Response

The Indian envoy also discussed the significance of the Pahalgam terror attack, noting that it marked the highest civilian casualties since the 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008. India, having long been a victim of cross-border terrorism, has expressed empathy for victims and their families while acknowledging the international community’s strong support following the attack.

India remains committed to condemning terrorism in all its forms and highlighted the establishment of the Victims of Terrorism Associations Network (VoTAN), an initiative that provides a safe space for victims of terrorism. Patel stated that initiatives like VoTAN are crucial in strengthening the global response to terrorism and ensuring that victims remain central to collective efforts.

Khwaja Asif’s Controversial Statement

In his interview, Khwaja Asif was asked if he admitted to Pakistan’s long history of backing and funding terrorist groups. In response, he claimed, “We have been doing this dirty work for the United States for about three decades... and the West, including Britain... That was a mistake, and we suffered for that.” He further suggested that if Pakistan had not participated in the wars against the Soviet Union and post-9/11 conflicts, its track record would have remained impeccable. (From Hindustan Times)

Conclusion

India’s condemnation of Pakistan as a "rogue state" and its call for global action against terrorism underscore the ongoing strain between the two nations. As the international community strengthens its commitment to combating terrorism, Pakistan’s open admission of its role in supporting terrorist activities continues to fuel global concern.