Tharoor's Strong Stance on Indo-Pak Talks
Indian opposition leader Shashi Tharoor, currently heading a delegation to the United States, issued a stark warning regarding peace talks between India and Pakistan. He likened Pakistan to a neighbor who first unleashes "rottweilers" against your children and then extends an invitation to talk, emphasizing that dialogue is futile unless terrorism is addressed first.
Tharoor asserted that India would not engage in talks with Pakistan under coercion or threats. He stressed that Pakistan must "lock up the rottweilers (terrorists) or put them to sleep" before any meaningful discussions can take place.
Rejection of Third-Party Mediation
Addressing the issue of external mediation, Tharoor was clear that the Kashmir dispute and related peace efforts are bilateral matters. He stressed that India has not sought third-party intervention for peace talks, signaling India's preference for direct dialogue without outside influence.
Engagement with US Leadership
On June 5, the Indian delegation met with US Vice President JD Vance in Washington D.C. to communicate India's positions on counter-terrorism and bilateral cooperation. Tharoor described the meeting as "comprehensive" and "productive," highlighting discussions on strengthening India-US strategic ties in areas including technology and security.
This meeting comes amid heightened tensions following terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir and India's subsequent strikes on terror camps across the border.
Context of Recent Tensions
India's May 7 military action targeted terror launchpads in Pakistan following attacks on civilians in Indian-administered Kashmir. Initially, US involvement appeared limited, with Vice President Vance commenting that it was "not our business" to intervene. However, the US later claimed to have helped broker a ceasefire, a claim that India later clarified was based on a bilateral understanding rather than US mediation.
Summary
- Shashi Tharoor demands Pakistan act decisively against terrorists before talks.
- India opposes third-party mediation in Indo-Pak issues, favoring bilateral dialogue.
- Indian delegation's meeting with US Vice President focused on counter-terrorism and strategic cooperation.
- Recent military tensions follow terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir and Indian cross-border strikes.
Tharoor’s statements reinforce the Indian position that peace and dialogue with Pakistan must be rooted in genuine counter-terrorism efforts and mutual respect for sovereignty.
