In a sharp and emotive message to Pakistan, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has reaffirmed that India will firmly respond to any act of terrorism on its soil, warning that even the land of Mahatma Gandhi will not “turn the other cheek” to such violence. Shashi Tharoor’s remarks, made during an event hosted by the Indian embassy in Panama, come as part of an all-party delegation’s global outreach effort following Operation Sindoor, and send a clear signal of India’s unified political stand against cross-border terrorism.
India’s resolve against terror
Shashi Tharoor, who is leading one of the delegations explaining the significance of Operation Sindoor to the international community, invoked Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings while delivering a hard-hitting critique of Pakistan’s alleged involvement in terrorism. Speaking about the need to live without fear, Shashi Tharoor said India must protect its freedom and stand up against those who attempt to harm it. “Even the land of Mahatma Gandhi will not turn the other cheek when this happens—we will respond,” he said, referring to recent terror attacks allegedly orchestrated from across the border.
He emphasized that terrorism cannot be justified as a political or religious tool, and lambasted those who commit violence under such pretexts. Shashi Tharoor also reiterated that India remains committed to its values, but will respond decisively when provoked.
Criticism of Pakistan’s military links to terrorism
In meetings with Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino and Foreign Minister Javier Martinez Acha, Shashi Tharoor and his delegation presented images of Pakistani military officials reportedly attending funerals of terrorists killed during Operation Sindoor. Calling out the hypocrisy, Shashi Tharoor said, “This is the country that now says we are innocent. We did not do it. You do not mourn for people you do not know.”
He highlighted how the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack targeted both innocent lives and Kashmir’s booming tourism sector. Referring to a conversation with India’s ambassador to Washington, he noted that more tourists were visiting Pahalgam than even Aspen, Colorado, pointing to how terror attacks attempt to derail the region’s progress.
Shashi Tharoor’s delegation includes leaders from BJP, JMM, TDP, Shiv Sena, and senior diplomats. The joint mission aims to amplify India’s counter-terrorism stance globally and demonstrate cross-party unity on national security matters.
