We express strong condemnation of any acts of terrorism: BRICS leaders on Pahalgam attack

"We express strong condemnation of any acts of terrorism as criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, whenever, wherever and by whomsoever committed. We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, during which 26 people were killed and many more injured," read a statement issued by the Indian government.

"We reaffirm our commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens. We reiterate that terrorism should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group and that all those involved in terrorist activities and their support must be held accountable and brought to justice in accordance with relevant national and international law," the statement said.

The BRICS nations urged to ensure zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering it.

The BRICS nation further said: "We welcome the activities of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its five Subgroups based upon the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan and the CTWG position paper. We look forward to further deepening counter-terrorism cooperation. We call for an expeditious finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN framework. We call for concerted actions against all UN designated terrorists and terrorist entities."

Indian PM Narendra Modi on Sunday described the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir as a blow to humanity.

Speaking at the BRICS Summit in Brazil, Modi said: "Terrorism is the most serious challenge facing humanity today. India recently endured a brutal and cowardly terrorist attack."

"The terrorist attack in Pahalgam on 22nd April was a direct assault on the soul, identity, and dignity of India. This attack was not just a blow to India but to the entire humanity," he said.

"In this hour of grief and sorrow, I express my heartfelt gratitude to the friendly countries who stood with us and expressed support and condolences," he said.

Sending a strong message, Modi said condemning terrorism must be a matter of principle and not just of convenience.

"If our response depends on where or against whom the attack occurred, it shall be a betrayal of humanity itself," he said.

At least 26 people were killed after gunmen attacked them in Pahalgam during the peak tourism season on April 22.

He said: "There must be no hesitation in imposing sanctions on terrorists. The victims and supporters of terrorism cannot be treated equally. For the sake of personal or political gain, giving silent consent to terrorism or supporting terrorists or terrorism, should never be acceptable under any circumstances. There should be no difference between our words and actions when it comes to terrorism."

He described the 'humanitarian situation' in Gaza as a matter of grave concern.