Johannesburg: An Indian all-party delegation, led by Nationalist Congress Party leader Supriya Sule, convened a joint press conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, during a diplomatic mission following Operation Sindoor.
Ms. Sule invoked the enduring legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, underscoring the shared values of non-violence and peace that closely bond India and South Africa. "India has consistently led the world in promoting peace. Our deep-rooted friendship with South Africa, the land that fostered icons like Gandhi and Mandela, reflects our mutual commitment to non-violence," she stated.
Addressing the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which resulted in 26 fatalities, including a Nepali national, Ms. Sule condemned the violence and conveyed the Indian delegation’s intent to inform the South African public about the incident. "Five weeks ago, a brutal attack struck at India's very soul, tragically claiming innocent lives during their vacation. It is a deeply distressing event," she remarked.
Ms. Sule emphasized India’s dedication to democratic principles, noting, "The beauty of any vibrant democracy lies in respecting the people's mandate. India steadfastly supports all democratically elected governments worldwide and remains sensitive to such issues. We are ready to extend assistance where possible."
Congress Member of Parliament Manish Tewari, part of the delegation, highlighted the bipartisan composition as indicative of India's unified opposition to terrorism. "India’s multi-party democratic system is reflected in this delegation’s diverse yet cohesive representation from both government and opposition," he said.
Mr. Tewari further underscored India’s stance against cross-border terrorism originating from Pakistan. He asserted, "Given Pakistan’s continued use of terrorism as a state policy tool and the blurred lines between its government and proxy actors, India’s national resolve is clear: such aggression will not be tolerated. India reserves the right to utilize the full range of available options to defend its national interests."
The delegation included MPs Supriya Sule, Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Vikramjeet Singh Sahney, Manish Tewari, Anurag Singh Thakur, Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu, Anand Sharma (former Minister of Commerce and Industry), V Muraleedharan (former Minister of State for External Affairs), and Syed Akbaruddin (former Permanent Representative of India to the UN).
During their visit, the delegation toured Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, where Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned, and viewed the Mandela-Gandhi Exhibition inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They also paid floral tributes at the Gandhi Statue.
On April 22, terrorists attacked the Baisaran valley in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 individuals, including a Nepalese citizen. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting nine terror camps and eliminating militants affiliated with groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.
