Bishkek/New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday called on the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to take a firm stand against “state-sponsored” cross-border terrorism, saying there can be no room for double standards in dealing with the threat.
In remarks seen as a pointed message to Pakistan, Singh said countries supporting, sheltering or enabling terror groups must face action, stressing that terrorism remains one of the gravest challenges to global peace and security.
Addressing the SCO defence ministers’ meeting in Bishkek, he said the grouping must remain focused on confronting terrorism in all its forms and not overlook threats emanating from across borders.
“We must not lose sight of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism which attacks the sovereignty of nations,” Singh said, adding that the SCO should not hesitate in acting against those who provide safe havens to terrorists.
Referring to India’s security doctrine, the Defence Minister said Operation Sindoor reflected the country’s firm resolve that “terror epicentres are no longer immune to justifiable punishment.”
He called for coordinated international efforts to tackle extremism, radicalisation and terrorism, describing them as major threats to the emerging world order.
Singh said the world was also grappling with rising unilateralism and recurring conflicts, which have caused repeated loss of life and growing instability.
Against this backdrop, he said, countries responsible for defence and security must introspect and adopt effective strategies to deal with evolving challenges.
He also underlined the significance of the SCO as a platform built on shared values and noted the grouping has consistently voiced opposition to terrorism and extremist ideologies.
The remarks come amid heightened regional security concerns and renewed focus on cross-border terror networks.
