Rajnath Singh Flags State-Sponsored Terror, Cites Operation Sindoor at SCO Meet

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said Operation Sindoor demonstrated India’s firm resolve that “terror epicentres” are no longer immune to justifiable punishment , remarks widely seen as a warning against state-sponsored cross-border terrorism .

Addressing the Defence Ministers’ conclave of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Bishkek, Singh called on member states to maintain a unified and consistent stance against terrorism, separatism and extremism. He stressed that there should be no place for double standards , particularly when dealing with countries or entities that abet, shelter or provide safe havens to terrorists .

“We must not lose sight of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism which attacks the sovereignty of a nation,” Singh said, urging SCO members to take appropriate and decisive action against such threats without hesitation.

Describing terrorism as the “most serious threat” to the emerging global order , Singh said counter-terror cooperation has been a foundational principle of the SCO. He reiterated that terrorism has no nationality or theology , and no grievance—real or perceived—can justify violence against civilians.

Referring to recent events, he recalled the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack , noting that such incidents underscore the urgent need for collective global action . He also cited the Tianjin Declaration adopted at last year’s SCO summit as a reflection of a shared commitment to a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism, while cautioning that the real test lies in consistent implementation .

Singh highlighted the role of the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) in facilitating intelligence sharing and coordination among member states, and said tackling radicalisation must remain a core priority amid rising global uncertainties.

On broader geopolitical challenges, Singh raised questions about the future of the global order, calling for a system rooted in dignity, coexistence and mutual respect . “We need a world where differences do not become disputes and disputes do not lead to disasters,” he said, urging nations to prioritise compassion over conflict and cooperation over competition .

He emphasised that the SCO has a crucial responsibility in ensuring both regional and global peace and stability , especially as the organisation marks its 25th anniversary in 2026 . Singh advocated for dialogue and diplomacy over force , invoking Mahatma Gandhi ’s message that “an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind”.

“The real test of power is not in using it against the weak, but in protecting those who cannot defend themselves,” he said, calling on defence leaders to uphold the values of brotherhood and harmony .

Reaffirming India’s commitment to the SCO framework, Singh said greater cooperation based on mutual trust, equality and understanding can make the organisation a beacon of peace . He also invoked the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam , emphasising a vision of global unity beyond differences of race and religion.

During the meeting, Singh, along with his counterparts, held discussions on tackling terrorism and radicalisation , and their broader implications for global security. The SCO, which includes India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Iran and several Central Asian nations, has emerged as a key transregional security and economic bloc since its founding in 2001.