27-June-2025 Daily Answer Writing
Q1) Critically examine India’s refusal to sign the SCO joint statement on terrorism in light of its position on cross-border terrorism.
(GS Paper 2 – International Relations, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
Answer:
India’s decision to not sign the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) joint statement reflects its assertive stance against terrorism and unwillingness to compromise on national security narratives.
India’s Reasons for Refusal
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Exclusion of Pahalgam Attack: The statement did not mention the April 22 Pahalgam attack in J&K, where 26 civilians were killed.
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Selective References: The document referenced Balochistan and Chahbahar but ignored terrorism faced by India, which could dilute India’s concerns.
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Lack of Consensus: India argued that SCO members couldn’t agree on common definitions and priorities regarding terrorism.
India’s Counter-Terrorism Stand
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Zero Tolerance Doctrine: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated India’s resolve to retaliate against terror, stating no place for double standards.
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Highlighting Cross-border Terrorism: India condemned countries that use terrorism as state policy and provide safe havens to groups like LeT and TRF.
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Push for Global Accountability: Singh called out selective silence by nations on terrorism emanating from their territory.
Strategic and Diplomatic Implications
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India’s Credibility: India reinforced its credibility as a nation serious about combating terror at multilateral platforms.
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Signal to Pakistan and China: The move sends a clear message to Pakistan over proxy actors like TRF and to China for not supporting India’s concerns.
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Operation Sindoor: India launched this operation targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan, showing a proactive approach beyond diplomacy.
Conclusion
India’s refusal to endorse the SCO statement underscores its principled stand against terrorism. By prioritising clarity over consensus, India reaffirmed that global cooperation on terror cannot come at the cost of selective blindness or political expediency
Read More – 26 June 2025: Daily Answer Writing
