Rajnath Singh Warns Global Powers: Stop Applying Double Standards on Terrorism

Rajnath Singh at SCO Meet: ‘Peace Cannot Coexist with Terrorism or Double Standards.’

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday delivered a strong message at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Qingdao, China, asserting that peace and prosperity cannot coexist with terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).

Singh, who was welcomed by Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun upon arrival, called on member states to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and hold its enablers accountable.

“Peace and prosperity cannot co-exist with terrorism and the proliferation of WMDs in the hands of non-state actors and terror groups,” Singh said. “Addressing these threats requires decisive, unified action for the sake of our collective safety and security.”

In a pointed rebuke to countries that shelter and support terrorists, Singh emphasised the need for consistency and courage in confronting such threats.

“Some nations continue to use cross-border terrorism as a strategic tool and offer safe havens to terrorists. There should be no place for such double standards. The SCO must not hesitate to hold such actors accountable,” he said.

Strong Words on Pahalgam Attack and Operation Sindoor
Singh also referenced the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, saying it bore hallmarks of Pakistan-based group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

“The Pahalgam terror attack reflects the pattern of previous attacks carried out by LeT. In response, and in defence of our people, India exercised its right to act pre-emptively.”

He highlighted India’s response in the form of Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, 2025, which targeted terror camps across the border in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

“Operation Sindoor successfully dismantled cross-border terrorist infrastructure, sending a clear message that India will not tolerate terrorism in any form,” Singh said.

The Defence Minister’s remarks come at a time of heightened global concern over cross-border terrorism, and underscore India’s call for greater accountability within regional and international security frameworks.