‘Operation Sindoor’ Signals End to Terror Safe Havens: Rajnath Singh Calls for Unified Global Action at SCO Meet

Addressing defence leaders from across the region, the Raksha Mantri stressed that state-sponsored cross-border terrorism remains a grave threat to sovereignty and must be confronted collectively.

India has sent a strong message against cross-border terrorism on the global stage, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declaring that "terrorism epicentres are no longer immune to justifiable punishment" during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers' Meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Referring to Operation Sindoor, Singh underscored India's firm resolve to take decisive action against terror networks, while calling on SCO member states to adopt a zero-tolerance, no-exceptions approach toward terrorism, separatism, and extremism.

No Double Standards on Terrorism

Addressing defence leaders from across the region, the Raksha Mantri stressed that state-sponsored cross-border terrorism remains a grave threat to sovereignty and must be confronted collectively.

"There is no place for double standards," Singh said, urging SCO nations to act decisively against those who abet, shelter, or provide safe havens to terrorists.

He emphasised that eliminating such safe havens is essential to transforming regional security into a foundation for peace and prosperity.

SCO's Role in Counter-Terrorism

Highlighting the SCO's mandate, Singh described counter-terrorism as a core principle of the organisation. He recalled the Tianjin Declaration, which reaffirmed member states' shared commitment to combating terrorism in all forms.

"The real test of collective credibility lies in consistency," he said. "Terrorism has no nationality and no theology. Nations must take a firm and unified stance."

He also praised the role of the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), noting its contribution in coordinating efforts to counter radicalisation and extremist threats across member states.

Global Order at a Crossroads

Beyond security concerns, Singh raised broader questions about the evolving global order, warning against increasing fragmentation and inward-looking policies among nations.

"Do we need a new world order, or a world that is more orderly?" he asked, advocating for a system rooted in dignity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.

He cautioned that the real crisis today lies in the erosion of faith in rule-based international systems, urging countries to prioritise cooperation over conflict.

Call for Dialogue Over Conflict

Reinforcing India's long-standing diplomatic approach, the Defence Minister urged SCO members to pursue dialogue and diplomacy rather than force, invoking Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy.

"We should not allow this to become an era of violence and war, but an era of peace and prosperity," he said, adding that true strength lies in protecting the vulnerable rather than overpowering them.

India's Vision: Cooperation and Shared Security

Singh reaffirmed India's commitment to working constructively within the SCO framework, advocating deeper cooperation based on equality, mutual trust, and shared understanding.

He also invoked the Indian philosophy of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family), calling for unity beyond differences of race, religion, and geography.

SCO at 25: Growing Relevance Amid Global Uncertainty

The meeting also marked discussions around the 25th anniversary of the SCO in 2026, with member nations acknowledging the organisation's increasing importance in a world marked by geopolitical tensions and uncertainty.

Delegates held extensive discussions on regional security, terrorism, and radicalisation, recognising their far-reaching implications for global peace.

A Strong Signal from India

With references to Operation Sindoor and a firm stance on cross-border terrorism, India used the platform to reinforce its assertive counter-terrorism posture, while simultaneously advocating for multilateral cooperation and global stability.

As global security challenges evolve, Singh's address positions the SCO as a key platform for shaping a collective, consistent, and principled response to terrorism.