New Delhi [India], April 23 (ANI): Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal on Wednesday strongly condemned the Pahalgam terror attack and demanded international accountability for the perpetrators. Speaking to ANI, Sibal urged the Indian government to move the International Criminal Court (ICC) to prosecute those responsible for the attack, labeling the incident as a grave crime against humanity.
“The terrorists who carried out this heinous attack should be prosecuted in the international court. I call on the Home Minister to push for Pakistan to be declared a terrorist state and to approach the ICC,” said Sibal.
He described the attack in Baisaran, a remote area near Pahalgam, as “an act of madness and insanity” but also “a carefully planned assault” given the terrain and the delay it would cause for any responding security forces.
“Baisaran valley is not accessible by car—it takes time to reach on foot or horse. The attackers used AK-47s and other weapons, segregated men, and targeted them systematically. This shows planning and knowledge of the area,” Sibal emphasized.
The ICC, headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, investigates and tries individuals accused of genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. However, Sibal’s proposal faces legal hurdles, as India has not ratified the Rome Statute—the treaty that established the ICC—and thus is not a member of the Assembly of States Parties.
Despite this, Sibal expressed hope that the Indian government would act decisively and suggested that even the Opposition would support the move if it took place in the national interest.
The Pahalgam attack, which targeted tourists in the scenic Baisaran meadow, has drawn nationwide condemnation. Local communities have observed shutdowns in mourning, and security operations are underway to track down the perpetrators. Streets in what is typically a vibrant tourist hub remain deserted as a somber mood grips the valley. (ANI)
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