Op Sindoor showed terror epicentres no longer immune to justifiable punishment: Rajnath at SCO

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday referred to last year’s skirmish with Pakistan, stating that Operation Sindoor reflected India’s resolve to demonstrate that “epicentres” of terrorism are no longer immune to “justifiable punishment”.

Addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Singh said underlined the need to forge a unified front to tackle the “evils” of terrorism, separatism and extremism by eliminating safe havens and rejecting any political exceptions.

He asserted that the sight of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism which attacks the sovereignty of a nation must not be lost as there is no place for double standards.

In an apparent reference to Pakistan’s alleged role in abetting terrorism, Singh said, “SCO should not hesitate in seeking appropriate action against those who abet, shelter and provide safe havens to terrorists.” Pakistan is a member of the SCO.

He added that by tackling terrorism, separatism and extremism without exception, regional security can be transformed from a challenge into a cornerstone for peace and prosperity.

Describing counter-terrorism as a foundational principle of SCO, Rajnath Singh said the organisation has condemned such acts and ideologies as part of a collective fight against the menace.

He recalled last year’s Tianjin Declaration which brought out India’s firm and collective stance against terrorism, terming it as a testimony to the country’s zero-tolerance outlook towards terrorism and its perpetrators.

“The real test of collective credibility remains in consistency. We must not forget that terrorism has no nationality and no theology. Nations must take a firm and collective stance against terrorism,” he added.

Singh highlighted the role of the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure, noting that the joint statement on “Countering Radicalisation leading to Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism” issued during India’s Chairmanship reflects a shared commitment.

He also pointed to the current global uncertainties, saying the SCO has a pivotal role to play as the world appears increasingly fragmented and inward-looking.

“It is the responsibility of SCO to ensure regional as well as global peace and stability. We should follow the path of dialogue and diplomacy, not unrelenting force. We should not allow this to become an era of violence and war, but one of peace and prosperity,” he said.

Recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s message that “an eye for an eye makes everyone blind,” Singh said that before every action, one must consider its impact on the lives of the poor and the needy.

“As people responsible for defence and security, we must uphold the spirit of brotherhood and harmony. The real test of power is not in using it against the weak, but to use it in the interest of those who are unable to defend themselves,” he added.