Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has asserted that India has clearly communicated to foreign countries its stance on cross-border terrorism and its right to respond with military action if provoked again. This message was conveyed during the diplomatic outreach following Operation Sindoor, a military operation launched in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam.
Speaking at an event in Ahmedabad, Tharoor emphasized that the international community should not be surprised if India repeats actions similar to Operation Sindoor in the event of future provocations. He stated that India had secured understanding from "very high-placed people" in other countries, who respected and supported India's right to self-defense and commended the restrained manner of India's response.
Tharoor led a delegation of Indian MPs to the US and other nations to engage on global counter-terrorism issues. He highlighted that these delegations effectively communicated that India acted with restraint and responsibility during Operation Sindoor. India made it clear that its actions were targeted at terrorist camps, facilities, and bases, with no intention of initiating a protracted conflict or war. The aim was retribution against terrorists, and India believed that the matter ended there.
Tharoor also issued a warning to Pakistan, urging them not to test India's patience. He stressed that India is focused on economic growth and poverty reduction but will not allow cross-border terrorism to continue with impunity. He stated that if Pakistan instigates or directs terror attacks, India will retaliate firmly, and there will be a price to pay.
India's evolving defense strategy, often described as "peace through strength," involves a willingness to retaliate against provocations without escalating into a full-scale war. This approach is rooted in the belief that while India does not seek conflict, it will not tolerate terrorism and will respond decisively to protect its citizens and interests.
Furthermore, Tharoor touched upon the 50th anniversary of the Emergency imposed by the Congress government, calling it "a bad period" in India's history. He urged politicians to dedicate themselves to the Constitution and the values of the founding fathers, rather than engaging in political point-scoring.
In related news, Tharoor responded to speculations about a rift within the Congress party following a cryptic social media post. He dismissed discussing political issues publicly, stating that any concerns would be addressed privately.