The recent gathering of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers in Goa, India, served as a crucial platform for regional dialogue and addressing pressing geopolitical challenges. Amidst discussions on economic cooperation, connectivity, and regional stability, India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, delivered a unequivocally strong message regarding the persistent threat of terrorism. His assertion, “There can be no white-washing of terrorism,” resonated across the forum, underscoring India’s unwavering stance and its inherent right to defend itself against this global menace.
The statement comes at a time when the world continues to grapple with various forms of extremist violence, and India, having been a significant victim of cross-border terrorism for decades, has consistently advocated for a zero-tolerance approach. Jaishankar’s remarks at such a high-profile international meet reinforced India’s commitment to holding perpetrators accountable and resisting any attempts to justify or rationalize acts of terror.
India’s Firm Stance Against the Scourge of Terrorism
Dr. Jaishankar’s declaration was more than just a diplomatic statement; it was a powerful articulation of India’s long-held policy and its frustrations with what it perceives as selective approaches to combating terrorism. By stating that there can be no “white-washing,” he directly challenged the narrative that sometimes attempts to differentiate between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ terrorists, or to provide ideological justifications for violence. India’s position has always been clear: terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, is a crime against humanity and must be condemned universally, without equivocation.
Addressing the SCO members, Jaishankar also highlighted the critical need for collective action against the financing of terrorism. He emphasized that the global community must unite to dismantle the infrastructure that supports and sustains terrorist organisations, including their financial networks, safe havens, and ideological propaganda. “When it comes to the scourge of terrorism, our resolve must be clear and absolute. We must collectively agree that there are no justifications for terrorism and no room for complacency,” he reportedly stated, reinforcing the urgency of concerted international efforts.
This firm posture reflects India’s own painful experiences, ranging from the Mumbai attacks to countless incidents of cross-border infiltration. India has consistently called for the implementation of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the United Nations, seeking a universally agreed definition of terrorism and a global framework for its prosecution. Jaishankar’s message at the SCO meet was a continuation of this consistent diplomatic push for greater accountability and transparency.
Asserting the Right to Self-Defence and National Sovereignty
Central to Dr. Jaishankar’s powerful intervention was the assertion of India’s undeniable right to defend itself. This principle of national sovereignty and the right to protect its citizens and territory against external aggression, including terrorism sponsored from across borders, is a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy. This stance is particularly pertinent in a region often challenged by geopolitical complexities and non-state actors operating with impunity.
A Call for Zero Tolerance
India’s assertion of its right to self-defence is not merely reactive but also proactive, signalling its readiness to take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests. This includes both diplomatic efforts to isolate state sponsors of terrorism and, when necessary, operational responses to neutralise threats. The message conveyed was unambiguous: any nation that fosters or supports terrorism against India will face a resolute response. The SCO, a regional grouping focused on security and stability, provides an appropriate forum for such declarations, as counter-terrorism is one of its stated objectives.
The dialogue at the SCO further underscored the shared responsibility of member states to combat terrorism within their respective jurisdictions and through collaborative initiatives. India, as a founding member and current chair of the SCO Council of Heads of State, has actively championed counter-terrorism cooperation, intelligence sharing, and capacity building among member nations. Jaishankar’s firm words served as a reminder that effective regional security hinges on a unified and uncompromising approach to this fundamental threat.
Conclusion
Dr. Jaishankar’s robust articulation at the SCO Foreign Ministers’ meeting sends a strong, clear message to the international community. India’s position on terrorism is unambiguous: there is no room for moral relativism or political expediency when confronting such a heinous threat. The assertion of India’s right to defend itself underlines its resolve to protect its sovereignty and citizens from terrorism, regardless of its origin or patronage. As the world continues to navigate complex security landscapes, India’s leadership in advocating for a principled, zero-tolerance approach to terrorism remains a critical voice, urging collective action for a more secure and peaceful global order.
