Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a strong message on terrorism at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Tuesday. He warned the global community against overlooking state-sponsored cross-border terrorism and stressed the need for consistent counter-terrorism efforts.
Zero-Tolerance Approach to Terrorism
Singh described terrorism as the most serious threat to the emerging world order and called for a unified global response. Without naming any country, he said, "We must not forget that terrorism has no nationality and no theology. No grievance can become an excuse for terrorism." He urged SCO members to adopt a zero-tolerance approach and remain vigilant against extremist and radical elements.
Reference to Pahalgam Attack and Operation Sindoor
Singh recalled the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, stating that the "carnage shook the entire humanity." He highlighted Operation Sindoor, launched in May 2025, as evidence of a shift in India's strategy. "We demonstrated our firm resolve that terrorism epicentres are no longer immune to justifiable punishment," he said. The operation targeted terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, striking launchpads of groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Context of Rising Conflicts
Speaking against the backdrop of unprecedented crises, Singh pointed to rising conflicts, extremism, and radicalism across regions. His remarks carried a clear signal amid long-standing tensions between India and Pakistan over cross-border militancy.
