During his recent visit to Brazil for the 17th BRICS Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a strong warning against terrorism and those who support it, emphasizing the need for a "zero tolerance" approach without any double standards. Addressing the session on 'Peace and Security and Reform of Global Governance' in Rio de Janeiro, Modi declared terrorism as the most serious threat to humanity.
Modi's remarks came in the wake of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which he described as a "direct attack on the soul, identity, and dignity of India". He expressed gratitude to the countries that offered support and condolences following the attack. He stressed that the Pahalgam attack was not just an attack on India but on all of humanity.
The Prime Minister asserted that there should be no hesitation in imposing sanctions against terrorists and that there is no place for double standards when dealing with terrorism. Modi stated emphatically that victims and supporters of terrorism cannot be weighed on the same scale. He cautioned against offering silent consent or support to terrorism for personal or political gain, deeming it unacceptable under any circumstances.
Modi urged BRICS member countries to speak in one voice against terrorism and its supporters, emphasizing that the condemnation of terrorism should be a principle and not merely a matter of convenience. He argued that judging a terror attack based on the country where it occurred or against whom it was directed would be a betrayal of humanity.
Furthermore, Modi highlighted the importance of resolving all disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, stating that war and violence have no place in fostering human development, which can only occur in a peaceful and secure environment. He underscored the significant role BRICS can play in achieving this objective.
MEA Secretary (Economic Relations) Dammu Ravi noted that PM Modi welcomed the united condemnation of the Pahalgam terrorist attack by BRICS members. Modi stressed that those funding, promoting, and providing safe havens to terrorists must be dealt with harshly.
Modi's strong stance against terrorism at the BRICS Summit reflects India's continued commitment to combating this global threat and seeking international cooperation to ensure a peaceful and secure world. He reiterated that any country supporting terrorism, directly or indirectly, must bear the consequences.