Rajnath Singh Highlights ‘Operation Sindoor’ as India’s Firm Anti-Terror Stand at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Meet

India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asserted that Operation Sindoor reflects India’s uncompromising stance against terrorism, stating that “terrorism epicentres are no longer immune to justifiable punishment,” while addressing the Defence Ministers’ Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Calling for a unified global response, Singh urged member nations to collectively combat terrorism, separatism, and extremism by eliminating safe havens and rejecting any political double standards.

Call for Collective Action Against Terrorism

Emphasising the need for consistency, Singh stated:
“Terrorism has no nationality and no theology. Nations must take a firm and collective stance against the menace.”

He stressed that the SCO must take decisive steps against countries and entities that abet, shelter, or support terrorists, underlining that state-sponsored cross-border terrorism poses a serious threat to sovereignty and global peace.

Reinforcing SCO’s Counter-Terrorism Role

Highlighting the organisation’s framework, Singh pointed to the role of SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure and referenced previous commitments such as the Tianjin Declaration, which reflects a shared resolve among member states.

He noted that counter-terrorism remains a foundational pillar of SCO cooperation, adding that consistency in action is key to maintaining credibility on the global stage.

A Vision for a Balanced Global Order

Amid rising global uncertainties, Singh questioned the direction of the current world order, advocating for a system rooted in:

• Co-existence
• Compassion
• Mutual respect

“We need a world where differences do not become disputes and disputes do not escalate into disasters,” he said, warning against increasing fragmentation and inward-looking tendencies among nations.

Peace Through Dialogue, Not Conflict

While reaffirming India’s firm stance on terrorism, the Defence Minister also emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy over conflict. Invoking the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, he reminded leaders that enduring peace must be built on restraint, responsibility, and human values.

He further reiterated India’s belief in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world as one family—as a guiding principle for global cooperation.

SCO’s Growing Relevance

With 2026 marking the 25th anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, Singh highlighted the bloc’s increasing importance in maintaining regional and global stability amid geopolitical uncertainties.

He concluded by reaffirming India’s commitment to working constructively with SCO members to strengthen cooperation based on equality, trust, and shared security goals.