The Ministry of External Affairs acknowledged that an Indian pilot is in custody of Pakistan, while denouncing Pakistan’s “vulgar display of an injured personnel” in violation of the Geneva Conventions and International Humanitarian Law.

In a statement today, the MEA said it had summoned the Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan this afternoon to “lodge a strong protest at the unprovoked act of aggression by Pakistan against India earlier today, including by violation of the Indian airspace by the Pakistan Air Force and targeting of Indian military posts … It was clearly conveyed that India reserves the right to take firm and decisive action to protect its national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity against any act of aggression or cross border terrorism.”

The MEA said it “strongly objected” to the “vulgar display” of the Indian pilot, who has been identified as Wing Commander Abhinandan, and said Pakistan would be “well advised to ensure that no harm comes to the Indian defence personnel in its custody”.

The Geneva Conventions provide procedures for the treatment of POWs and civilians captured by the enemy during combat. They clearly state: “…prisoners of war must at all times be protected, particularly against acts of violence or intimidation and against insults and public curiosity.”