Double standards on terror unacceptable: PM Modi

Srinagar, Sep 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday once again condemned the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people, mostly tourists, dead, saying every country should adopt a clear and collective position against terrorism.
The Prime Minister said nations must reject double standards on terrorism and speak with one voice against it. He added that terrorism, in every form, must be opposed, calling it a responsibility towards humanity.
Addressing the 25th Heads of State Council meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Modi said terrorism was not just a challenge for India but for all countries that value human life.
He said India had faced decades of terror violence, leaving deep social and human costs. “This attack was an open challenge to every country and every person who believes in humanity,” Modi said, adding that support for terrorism in any form must not be tolerated.
The joint declaration released after the meeting carried a condemnation of the Pahalgam attack, as well as two separate incidents in Pakistan. It reiterated the need to hold the perpetrators accountable and called for collective efforts to combat terrorism.
The PM said there should be no ambiguity in defining terrorism and no scope for double standards. “We must oppose terrorism in every form and manifestation. This is our responsibility towards humanity,” he told world leaders.
He said India was grateful to friendly nations for their support, adding that the attack was not only directed at the country but also posed a challenge to shared human values.
Calling for a unified global stance, Modi questioned whether it was acceptable for some nations to openly back terrorism. He stressed that there should be no double standards and that the fight must be against terrorism in every form.
“Confronting terror was not only a matter of security but also a responsibility towards humanity,” the Prime Minister said.
On regional priorities, PM Modi said India views connectivity as more than trade links, describing it as a means to build trust and foster development.
He said the country has faced the impact of terrorism for nearly forty years, with countless families losing loved ones and mothers bearing the pain of children lost to violence. (KNO)