Rajnath Singh Calls for Accountability in Terrorism at SCO Meeting
Rajnath Singh Addresses Terrorism Concerns at SCO
Qingdao: During a recent meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the need for accountability among those who perpetrate and support terrorism. He refrained from signing a communique due to its failure to adequately address India's concerns regarding terrorism backed by Pakistan.
The SCO operates on a consensus basis, and Singh's decision not to endorse the document led to the conclusion of the defence ministers' conclave without a joint statement, according to sources.
Singh pointed out the lack of a definitive strategy to tackle terrorism, particularly cross-border threats. He insisted that there should be 'no double standards' in the fight against terrorism and called for unity among SCO member nations in condemning this global issue.
The SCO includes India, China, Pakistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
In a veiled reference to Pakistan, Singh remarked that certain nations exploit cross-border terrorism as a 'tool of policy' to harbor terrorists.
He stated, 'The primary challenges we face in our region stem from issues of peace, security, and a deficit of trust.'
Singh highlighted that the root causes of these challenges are rising radicalization, extremism, and terrorism, asserting that peace and prosperity cannot coexist with terrorism and the spread of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) among non-state actors.
He called for decisive action to confront these threats, urging a collective effort for safety and security.
The minister stressed that those who sponsor and utilize terrorism for their own interests must face repercussions.
He reiterated that the SCO should not shy away from criticizing nations that engage in double standards regarding terrorism.
Singh also noted that the recent Pahalgam terror attack bore similarities to previous attacks by the Lashkar-e-Taiba in India.
In response to this heinous act, India initiated Operation Sindoor, exercising its right to defend against terrorism and deter further cross-border assaults.
He explained that during the Pahalgam attack, victims were targeted based on their religious identity, with the Resistance Front, linked to the UN-designated terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, claiming responsibility.
Singh reaffirmed India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, stating that the country has demonstrated its resolve through actions.
He emphasized that the epicenters of terrorism are no longer safe and that India will not hesitate to target them.
The defence minister urged SCO members to unequivocally condemn terrorism and reiterated India's commitment to combating this menace in all its forms.
He also called for proactive measures to curb radicalization among youth.
Singh referenced the joint statement from the SCO Heads of State Council on 'Countering Radicalisation leading to Terrorism, Separatism and Extremism,' which reflects a shared commitment.
He pointed out that the world faces complex challenges, including transnational terrorism, cyber threats, and hybrid warfare, which require a unified response based on transparency, mutual trust, and collaboration.
Singh concluded by reaffirming India's consistent policy aimed at promoting peace, security, and stability in Afghanistan.
He arrived in Qingdao on Wednesday to participate in the SCO Defence Ministers' Conclave.