South Asians for Human Rights (SAHR), a regional network of human rights defenders, vehemently condemns ‘Operation Sindoor’ launched by the Government of India attacking approximately 9 sites in Pakistan and Pakistan administered Kashmir on 7 May 2025 following the terrorist attack that took place against 26 tourists in Pahalgam, in Indian administered Kashmir in April 2025. The Government of Pakistan has retaliated against these airstrikes further escalating this situation.
Voicing the concerns of South Asians, SAHR resolutely demands from the governments of India and Pakistan to immediately de-escalate the current war situation. Failing to do so will irrevocably affect people of both countries as well as the people of South Asia. Further, SAHR strongly advocates that the people of India, Pakistan as well as the region must avoid any means of war mongering. Ultimately the two governments are accountable for all the intentional destruction and loss of life and therefore must strive to maintain an effective and meaningful dialogue and diplomacy to address related issues and concerns. SAHR firmly urges the two parties directly involved in these war tensions to further refrain from toxic weaponisation of religion.
SAHR stands in solidarity with the fundamental rights of the people of Kashmir and their long years of struggle. Consequently, it assertively reiterates the need for a credible and transparent investigation into the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, led by the United Nations.
Peace is essential to South Asians, especially now. There are numerous human rights and humanitarian issues that people of India and Pakistan and the entire region are facing which have compelled them to survive with the bare minimum provisions and capacity sans upgrading their life to a dignified standard.
On behalf of the members of South Asians for Human Rights
Dr. P. Saravanamuttu
Bureau Member
Sushil Pyakurel
Bureau Member