Every Terror Act is Unjustifiable: Rajnath Singh Urges SCO Unity Against Terrorism

TIT Correspondent
info@impressivetimes.com

NEW DELHI, 26 JUNE: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, on June 26, 2025, laid down the broad contours of India’s evolving counter‑terrorism policy at the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, China, calling upon member nations to unite against the global menace for collective safety and security.

Addressing the SCO Defence Ministers, the SCO Secretary General, RATS Director, and other delegates, Rajnath Singh stated that rising radicalisation, extremism, and terror remain the root causes of global peace and trust deficits. “Peace and prosperity cannot co‑exist with terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction in the hands of non‑state actors. Those who sponsor, nurture, and utilize terror must bear the consequences. SCO must not hesitate to call out nations with double standards,” he asserted.

Recounting India’s firm stand, the Raksha Mantri said the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed by The Resistance Front, a Lashkar‑e‑Taiba proxy, reaffirmed India’s right to defend itself. “We have demonstrated that epicentres of terror are no longer safe. We will not hesitate to target and deter cross‑border attacks,” he stated, calling upon SCO members to unequivocally condemn terror in all its forms and ensure accountability.

Highlighting the threat posed by terrorist use of technology, including drones for smuggling weapons and drugs, Rajnath Singh said traditional borders can no longer contain these dangers. He emphasized the role of SCO’s Regional Anti‑Terrorist Structure (RATS) in countering radicalization, and cited the joint statement issued during India’s SCO chairmanship as an example of collective commitment.

The Raksha Mantri emphasized that traditional security concerns must be addressed alongside new, non‑traditional threats like pandemics, climate change, and food and water security. “These challenges recognize no boundaries and can only be addressed through responsible policies and cooperation,” he stated, highlighting India’s initiative for disaster‑resilient infrastructure and its support for a stable, prosperous Afghanistan.

Pointing to SCO’s significance in the current uncertain global climate, Rajnath Singh said its member nations, representing roughly 30% of global GDP and 40% of the world’s population, have a vital role in shaping a secure, stable, and inclusive future. He advocated for reformed multilateralism to foster cooperation and dialogue amid intensifying global competition.

“Better connectivity within the SCO can foster mutual trust, economic growth, and stability — if rooted in respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said. Rajnath Singh reaffirmed India’s vision of SAGAR and MAHASAGAR, promoting security, trust, and holistic growth across the region.

He concluded by invoking India’s civilizational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, reminding nations that “one earth, one family, one future” must guide collective efforts towards peace, stability, and mutual benefit across the SCO and beyond.