Leading a varied all-party delegation, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor outlined India’s diplomatic strategy and hard stance on terrorism in the wake of the recent spike in violence in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
Tharoor emphasized that India’s message to Pakistan was clear: if Pakistan stopped its provocations, India would likewise exercise caution, but any retaliation from Pakistan will be greeted with a commensurate response from India. He pointed out that this strategy matches India’s larger goal of putting peace and prosperity first while maintaining the right to protect oneself from terrorist attacks.
Tharoor emphasized the effectiveness of the all-party delegation’s worldwide outreach, which sought to inform important international stakeholders of India’s stance on terrorism. The mission, which included former ambassadors and politicians from a range of political parties, toured five nations and met with senior interlocutors, presidents, prime ministers, vice presidents, and other high-ranking officials. Many international interlocutors expressed admiration for India’s calm response and a clear understanding of the circumstances that led to India’s actions in Pahalgam, according to Tharoor, who said that these conversations were fruitful.
Comparing the diplomatic initiatives of India and Pakistan was a crucial part of Tharoor’s speech. He emphasized the scope and efficacy of India’s outreach by pointing out that Pakistan only managed to send two delegations to other nations to clarify its stance, but India sent seven. There was no true comparison between the two nations’ diplomatic endeavors, according to Tharoor, who claimed that India’s was much more comprehensive and significant.
Following Operation Sindoor, which was started on May 7 in reaction to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam by militants supported by Pakistan, the delegation’s visit was a component of India’s international outreach.
The Indian Armed Forces responded forcefully to the attack, which left 26 people dead and numerous others injured. Over 100 terrorists connected to organizations like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen were killed as a result of subsequent targeted attacks against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
The all-party delegation’s unity was hailed by Tharoor, who emphasized that it demonstrated India’s commitment to diplomatic engagement and its collective resolve against terrorism. Additionally, he was upbeat about a forthcoming meeting with Prime Minister Modi, seeing it as a chance to further solidify India’s united front.
India’s twin focus on development and security, its readiness to take a tough stance against terrorism, and its ability to mobilize world understanding and support were all highlighted by Tharoor’s remarks and the delegation’s actions. Both showcasing national unity and clearly conveying India’s stance to the world community were considered successes of the diplomatic effort.
