Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday declared that terror hubs are no longer immune to action, sending a strong warning to countries sheltering terrorism during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Defence Ministers’ meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Singh referenced the April 22 Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor, stressing India’s resolve to punish terrorism epicentres. He said the incident had shaken humanity and underlined India’s determination to respond decisively. Without naming Pakistan, Singh highlighted the need for a consistent approach against terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
He recalled the Tianjin Declaration of the SCO, which reaffirmed collective commitment to counter-terrorism, and urged members to act as guardians of international standards. He said tackling terrorism transforms regional security into a cornerstone for peace and prosperity.
Placing the issue in a global context, Singh said the world faces unprecedented crises marked by conflicts and loss of lives. He cautioned against attempts to undermine the rules-based international order and called for coexistence, compassion, and cooperation.
Singh emphasised that peace requires dialogue and diplomacy rather than unrelenting force. He urged SCO nations to leverage shared civilisational ties to promote stability and prosperity. He said success lies in cooperating with clarity and purpose.
The remarks balanced India’s firm stance against terrorism with a call for collective action, reflecting heightened tensions in the region and renewed focus on cross-border threats.
