Rajnath Singh Delivers Bold Warning to Pakistan Over Terror Links at SCO Summit, Khawaja Asif in Attendance

New Delhi:
In a powerful and uncompromising address at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh directly confronted Pakistan over its continued sheltering of terrorist groups. The high-stakes summit, held amid rising regional tensions, saw Singh reaffirm India’s firm stance against cross-border terrorism, sending a clear message to Islamabad.

With Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif present in the room, Rajnath Singh didn’t mince words. He categorically stated that nations supporting or sheltering terrorism must be held accountable, adding that such actions severely undermine peace and stability in the region.

“Terrorism in all its forms and manifestations cannot be justified,” Singh declared. He emphasized that the SCO, as a regional security bloc, should stand united against countries that enable terror networks. His remarks received strong backing from other member states concerned about growing security threats in South Asia.

🔍 A Consistent Indian Stand

India has consistently raised the issue of Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorist outfits operating across the border, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. Rajnath Singh’s statement at the SCO summit is part of New Delhi’s broader diplomatic campaign to isolate terror-sponsoring nations on international platforms.

The Defence Minister reiterated India’s commitment to regional peace while calling for collective action against terrorism, cyber threats, and extremist ideologies that destabilize the region.

🔥 Khawaja Asif’s Silent Reaction

Interestingly, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, present during Singh’s remarks, chose not to respond publicly to the pointed criticism. Analysts note that such direct exchanges at multilateral forums like SCO reflect the simmering tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

🌍 What This Means for Regional Stability

With Afghanistan’s future still uncertain and rising terror threats in Central and South Asia, India’s tough stance at the SCO summit signals a policy of zero tolerance against cross-border terrorism. It also highlights the deep divisions within the bloc, especially when member states like India and Pakistan hold starkly opposing security views.

Diplomatic experts suggest that while the SCO aims to promote regional cooperation, unresolved bilateral issues like terrorism could continue to strain relations within the organization.