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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday called on member nations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to eliminate double standards in the global fight against terror, asserting that there is no place for ambiguity when dealing with those who provide safe havens to terrorists.
"We must not lose sight of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism which attacks the very sovereignty of a nation state," Singh stated, adding that the SCO should not hesitate in seeking appropriate action against those who abet and shelter such elements. Addressing the SCO Defence Ministers' Meeting in the Kyrgyz capital, the Defence Minister delivered a stern message against state-sponsored militancy. He asserted that "terrorism epicentres" are no longer immune to "justifiable punishment," citing India's military response during 'Operation Sindoor' as a clear demonstration of firm national resolve. Singh maintained that the collective credibility of the grouping depends on its consistency in tackling the "three evils" of terrorism, separatism, and extremism. Recalling the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on 22 April, he remarked that "no grievance, real or supposed, can become an excuse for terrorism and humanitarian loss." He further emphasised that "terrorism has no nationality and no theology," urging the forum to act as a "consistent guardian of international standards." Touching upon global security, the Defence Minister noted that the international community is facing a reality check due to increasing unilateralism. He argued that the current crisis stems from a tendency to question the "established rule-based world order" rather than a lack of an existing framework. "We need an order where differences do not become disputes and disputes don't precede disasters," he said. Invoking the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, Singh advocated for diplomacy and the ethical use of power. He stated that the real test of power lies in protecting those unable to defend themselves rather than using it against the weak. He urged member states to ensure the current age does not become "an era of violence and war, but an era of peace and prosperity." Reiterating India's commitment to the SCO's mandate through the philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," the Defence Minister said India believes the organisation possesses the strength to contribute significantly to regional stability. He called for "greater co-operation and mutual trust among SCO members based on equality and mutual respect" to address shared challenges without exception. (ANI)
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