In a powerful statement reflecting India's firm stance against terrorism, Shashi Tharoor, a prominent Member of Parliament, recently shared a poignant Hindi poem encapsulating the nation's message to the world: "The world knows the truth now." This came as he led an all-party delegation on a multi-nation tour to key partner countries to explain India's stance on cross-border terrorism in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. The delegation's recent stop was in the United States, where they met with Vice President JD Vance and Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, among other top officials.
Tharoor's poem, posted on X, translates to: "If you are born a hundred times, you will do it a hundred times; I will love my country with all my heart; Whatever we could do, we did it 'A Watan'; The whole world now knows the truth." This verse underscores India's unwavering commitment to its motherland and its dedication to combating terrorism. It also emphasizes that the world is now aware of the reality of the situation.
The all-party delegation, which included representatives from various political parties such as the JMM, BJP, TDP, and Shiv Sena, embarked on this global outreach program to articulate India's firm resolve in tackling terrorism, particularly in light of Operation Sindoor. This operation was launched in response to the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. Before arriving in the US, the delegation visited Panama, Guyana, Colombia, and Brazil, engaging with government officials and leaders to convey India's perspective.
During their visit to the United States, the delegation held meetings on Capitol Hill and in Washington, briefing American officials and leaders about Operation Sindoor and India's position on cross-border terrorism. The Indian Embassy stated that the delegation explained to Deputy Secretary of State Landau India's stance against terrorism, emphasizing that Operation Sindoor was a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack.
Tharoor has been vocal about India's commitment to peace, but also its readiness to respond firmly to any provocations. He warned Pakistan against testing India's patience, stating that India has shown restraint but has limits when it comes to cross-border terrorism. He asserted that terrorists targeting India have realized they will have to pay a price. He highlighted that India sought global understanding and solidarity after the Pahalgam attack, emphasizing that if such attacks were to occur again, India would retaliate strongly.
In his interactions, Tharoor also addressed the issue of evidence regarding Pakistan's involvement in terror attacks. He affirmed that India possesses convincing evidence but has not been asked to provide it by any country. He also highlighted observations about Pakistan's role in the terror attacks.
Tharoor's efforts have garnered attention, both positive and negative. While he has received support from some quarters for his clear articulation of India's stance, he has also faced criticism from within his own party, with some suggesting that his remarks do not align with the Congress party's stand. Despite this, Tharoor has maintained that national interest is his priority.
The delegation's visit to the 9/11 Memorial in New York served as a poignant reminder of the shared experience of India and the US as victims of terrorism. Tharoor called for global solidarity in holding state sponsors of terror accountable. As India continues its global outreach, Tharoor's poem serves as a powerful reminder of the nation's unwavering spirit and its determination to combat terrorism.