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In a resolute address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) gathering, India issued a powerful call for member nations to abandon the application of double standards and actively confront the instigators of terrorism. Ajit Doval, India’s National Security Advisor, articulated the nation's unwavering stance that terrorism, in any manifestation, constitutes a crime against humanity and demanded accountability for the perpetrators, organizers, financiers, and sponsors of cross-border terrorist activities. The gravity of the situation, as depicted by Doval, underscores India's commitment to eradicating terrorism from the region and fostering an environment of security and stability for all member states.
Doval's remarks emphasized the persistent threat posed by terrorist organizations designated by the United Nations, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Al Qaeda and its affiliates, and ISIS-linked outfits. These groups continue to pose a significant danger to regional and global security, necessitating concerted efforts to dismantle their networks and prevent future attacks. The specific mention of these groups serves as a stark reminder of the diverse and evolving nature of terrorist threats and the need for ongoing vigilance and collaboration among nations to counter them effectively.
The National Security Advisor drew specific attention to the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 Indian and Nepalese nationals. The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of LeT, involved the horrifying segregation of victims based on religion prior to the massacre. This act of brutality underscores the sectarian and divisive nature of terrorism, highlighting the urgent need to address the root causes of extremism and promote tolerance and inclusivity. Doval's reference to this specific incident served to personalize the impact of terrorism and reinforce the importance of taking decisive action to prevent future tragedies.
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India launched Operation Sindoor, a targeted campaign aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure and deterring future infiltration attempts. Doval emphasized that India’s actions were “measured and non-escalatory,” while reaffirming the nation’s right to protect its citizens and defend its sovereignty. This strategic response underscores India's commitment to maintaining stability in the region while simultaneously addressing the immediate threat posed by terrorist groups. The emphasis on a measured and non-escalatory approach demonstrates India's responsible approach to counter-terrorism, prioritizing the safety of its citizens and the preservation of regional peace.
Doval underscored the crucial importance of a unified and uncompromising approach to terrorism, urging SCO countries to reject double standards and firmly oppose all forms of terrorism. This call for unity highlights the need for a collective response to terrorism, transcending political differences and prioritizing the shared goal of eliminating this global threat. By urging SCO countries to shun double standards, Doval emphasized the importance of consistency and transparency in the fight against terrorism, ensuring that no state provides support or safe haven to terrorist groups. The effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts relies on the collective will and concerted action of all nations, working together to disrupt terrorist networks and prevent future attacks.
Guided by the ancient Indian principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family — India reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with SCO member states to foster peace, prosperity, and security in the region. This philosophical foundation underscores India's vision of a harmonious and interconnected world, where nations work together to address common challenges and promote mutual understanding. The principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam embodies the spirit of cooperation and collaboration that is essential for building a more peaceful and secure future for all. India's commitment to this principle underscores its dedication to working alongside SCO member states to achieve shared goals and promote regional stability.
The urgency with which Doval addressed the SCO underscores India's strategic assessment of the current security landscape. The persistence of UN-designated terrorist groups, coupled with the evolving tactics employed by these organizations, necessitates a comprehensive and coordinated response. Operation Sindoor, while described as measured, signals a willingness to act decisively in the face of imminent threats. India's approach, as articulated by Doval, is not merely reactive; it proactively seeks to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and prevent future acts of violence. This proactive stance demonstrates India's commitment to safeguarding its national interests and contributing to regional security.
Beyond the immediate threat of terrorist attacks, Doval's emphasis on Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam highlights India's broader vision for the SCO. This vision encompasses economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and the promotion of shared values. By framing the fight against terrorism within this broader context, India seeks to foster a sense of collective responsibility among SCO member states. The SCO, as a platform for regional cooperation, provides an opportunity for nations to work together towards common goals, building trust and strengthening relationships that can contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous future. India's commitment to Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam reflects its belief in the power of collaboration and the importance of building bridges between cultures.
The challenge for the SCO lies in translating these principles into concrete action. While condemning terrorism in principle is relatively easy, achieving consensus on specific measures and implementing them effectively can be more difficult. The issue of double standards, which Doval explicitly addressed, remains a significant obstacle. Some SCO member states may have differing perceptions of certain terrorist groups or may prioritize their own national interests over a unified approach to counter-terrorism. Overcoming these challenges requires open dialogue, mutual understanding, and a commitment to transparency. India's leadership in advocating for a unified and uncompromising approach to terrorism can play a crucial role in shaping the SCO's agenda and fostering a more effective response to this global threat.
Ultimately, the success of the SCO in combating terrorism will depend on the collective will of its member states to prioritize security, uphold international law, and reject all forms of extremism. India's unwavering commitment to these principles, as articulated by Ajit Doval, provides a strong foundation for future cooperation and a roadmap for building a more secure and stable region. The principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam serves as a guiding light, reminding SCO member states of their shared responsibility to work together for the common good and to create a world where all can live in peace and prosperity.
Source: India urges Shanghai members to shun double standards, act against terror sponsors