NATIONAL: Should We Mourn Terrorists? Shashi Tharoor Questions Colombia’s Stance
Congress MP voices concern over Colombia’s reaction to Operation Sindoor
Condolences for Terrorists Draw Criticism
Congress MP and senior leader Shashi Tharoor expressed disappointment over the Colombian government’s message of condolence to those killed in Pakistan during India’s counter-terror operations under Operation Sindoor. Tharoor, who is currently leading a multi-party Indian parliamentary delegation to Colombia, stated that the Colombian administration should have instead shown solidarity with the victims of terrorism.
India’s Right to Self-Defense
Speaking to the media, Tharoor clarified that India was only defending itself through Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam terror attack. He said that instead of standing with the victims of terrorism, Colombia is mourning the deaths of those in Pakistan, many of whom were terrorists. He stated that India has every right to defend itself under international law.
Tharoor added that his delegation was prepared to explain to Colombian officials the circumstances that led to the military operation. He emphasized that India has endured terrorism for over four decades.
Pakistan’s Role in Regional Destabilization
Tharoor accused Pakistan of misusing its military infrastructure to promote terrorism across its borders. He pointed out that Pakistan is not using its defense equipment for self-protection, but to sponsor terror attacks on its neighbors. He asserted that India’s military actions were aimed solely at terror camps, not civilians.
He also revealed that 81% of Pakistan’s defense arsenal is supplied by China, a factor that continues to fuel regional instability.
Pahalgam Attack and India’s Response
The trigger for Operation Sindoor was the brutal attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 Indian civilians, mostly tourists, lost their lives. In response, India launched precision strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Defense sources have confirmed that over 170 terrorists were neutralized during the operation. Although the Pakistan Army responded with counterattacks, Indian forces effectively repelled them. Currently, both countries are adhering to a ceasefire agreement.