Indian Delegation Wraps Up US Visit Advocating Against Global Terrorism
A multi-party Indian delegation, headed by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, has just concluded a significant diplomatic mission in the United States. The visit aimed to strengthen international consensus in support of India's counter-terrorism stance after the devastating April 22 Pahalgam attack, which tragically claimed 26 lives.
Calling for Global Awareness and Support
Upon completing the US leg of their trip, Tharoor passionately conveyed on social media, "If you are born a hundred times, you will do it a hundred times. I will love my country with all my heart… A Watan. The whole world now knows the truth. We are lovers of non-violence but only until someone tests that... Jai Hind!" This message underscored India’s commitment to peace alongside firm action against terror threats.
Honoring Mahatma Gandhi’s Legacy
The delegation paid homage to a statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Washington, D.C., a symbolic nod to the principles of peace, nonviolence, and human freedom Gandhi championed. Tharoor reflected, "It is striking how many world capitals are adorned with statues or busts of the Mahatma, the 20th century’s greatest apostle of peace and human dignity." This gesture added emotional weight to their diplomatic efforts.
Meetings with US Leaders Highlight Shared Commitment
- The delegation’s visit included discussions with prominent figures such as US Vice President JD Vance, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, senior members of Congress, policy analysts, and influential Indian-American community leaders.
- Tharoor described the meeting with Vice President Vance as "an excellent meeting," emphasizing the Vice President’s warm reception and strong support for India’s measured response through Operation Sindoor.
- A US State Department official reiterated America’s robust backing of India’s fight against terrorism, emphasizing the strategic partnership shared by both nations.
Clarifying India’s Position on Counter-Terrorism
Speaking at the Center on Foreign Relations, Tharoor stressed that India’s military actions target terror infrastructure exclusively, not civilians. "We are not interested in attacking Pakistani civilians or ordinary people. This is about India versus terrorism," he asserted. He further added, "If safe havens remain open or terrorist leaders free, then our options become limited. This is the path we are forced to take."
He sharply criticized Pakistan’s military influence over the state, saying, "In India, the state has an army. In Pakistan, the army has a state," accusing Islamabad of leveraging conflict to shape public opinion.
Tharoor also dismissed misinformation spread online regarding the recent skirmishes, pointing out that viral videos falsely claimed as evidence of Pakistani success were, in fact, from unrelated past conflicts.
Building Bridges and Strengthening Alliances
The delegation’s journey began earlier in the week with stops in Guyana, Panama, Colombia, and Brazil, setting a broad diplomatic stage before arriving in Washington. Throughout their engagements, the group sought to present a unified front in combating terrorism globally while reinforcing India’s resolve and commitment to peace.
With these efforts, India hopes to rally stronger international cooperation to address terror threats and uphold regional and global security.
