Tharoor Commends 'Operation Sindoor' as a Symbolic Counter-Terrorism Effort
During his visit to Washington, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praised India's counter-terrorism operation against Pakistan, referring to 'Operation Sindoor' as a "brilliantly chosen name." He emphasized the symbolic resonance of sindoor, a traditional vermilion mark worn by married Hindu women, noting its close resemblance to the color of blood.
The Significance of 'Sindoor'
Tharoor elaborated, "Sindoor is a vermilion mark worn on the forehead of married Hindu women, symbolizing marital status. While many Americans may not be familiar with this tradition, it remains a deeply rooted cultural practice. It is typically applied during the marriage ceremony and worn daily thereafter." He also noted that some non-Hindus wear sindoor for decorative purposes, though its primary significance lies in Hindu marriage customs.
Recounting the Pahalgam Survivors' Harrowing Appeal
Addressing the Indian community in Washington, DC, Tharoor recounted a chilling moment from the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, where terrorists shot men in front of their wives and children but spared the women. In a poignant detail, a wife who witnessed her husband's murder cried, "Kill me too," only to be told, "No, you go back and tell them what we’ve done."
This incident underscores the brutal nature of the attack and highlights the resilience of survivors tasked with conveying the terror inflicted upon their families.
Building International Support for India's Measures
Tharoor highlighted the strong bipartisan support India has received from US lawmakers following the attack. He noted, "We've encountered an impressive cross-section of legislators who have engaged with us, underscoring the depth of the India-US strategic partnership."
He explained that the delegation’s purpose was to share details about recent events in India and to seek solidarity regarding India's counter-terrorism efforts.
"The relationship with India matters deeply," Tharoor added. "During meetings at the Senate, even when legislators had to rush to votes, they made time to engage constructively with us, reflecting the strength and reality of this partnership."
Conclusion
Shashi Tharoor's remarks highlight both the cultural symbolism embedded in 'Operation Sindoor' and the resolve shown by survivors of terrorism in Kashmir. His engagement with US lawmakers reflects ongoing diplomatic outreach to fortify support for India’s counter-terrorism stance.
