Riyadh, May 29, 2025: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad was hospitalised during an all-party Indian delegation's visit to Kuwait, prompting his early return to India due to illness.
BJP Member of Parliament Baijayant Panda, who is leading the multi-party delegation in Saudi Arabia, highlighted the strong bilateral cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia, particularly their shared resolve against terrorism.
Speaking to ANI, Panda emphasized, "Saudi Arabia has faced severe terrorism in its past and has consistently taken a principled stance. Prime Minister Modi was in Saudi Arabia during the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, and the joint statement by the Crown Prince and India unequivocally condemns all forms of terrorism, especially cross-border terrorism. Our nations are united against terrorism, which mainly stems from Pakistan-sponsored groups. This growing closeness is promising in addressing cross-border terror threats."
Regarding Ghulam Nabi Azad's condition, Panda stated, "Despite a demanding schedule involving numerous meetings and late-night flights across two countries, Azad Ji represented India with remarkable dedication. Unfortunately, he fell ill and was hospitalized. Thankfully, all necessary medical tests and procedures have been completed, and his condition is stable."
Panda confirmed that Azad will return to India and extended wishes for his swift recovery, noting, "His contributions during the visits were exceptional. Though he will miss joining us in Saudi Arabia and the next leg in Algeria, his impact has been profound."
Additionally, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, part of the delegation, mentioned their firm communication to Saudi counterparts regarding India's stance on terrorism. "We clearly conveyed that Pakistan must shut down terrorist camps. Any act of terrorism will be met with decisive retaliation. Despite efforts to improve relations, threats remain. Saudi officials acknowledged our concerns during discussions with their Foreign Ministry's think tank," Dubey said.
The delegation's engagements in Saudi Arabia included meetings with government officials, think tanks, business leaders, and media representatives, underscoring the importance of diplomatic and civil society ties.
The delegation comprises several parliamentarians and notable figures, including BJP MPs Nishikant Dubey, Phangnon Konyak, Rekha Sharma, Satnam Singh Sandhu, AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi, and former diplomat Harsh Shringla.
This diplomatic outreach follows Operation Sindoor, initiated on May 7 as a response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in 26 civilian casualties. Indian security forces conducted targeted strikes against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, eliminating over 100 militants linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
