Rajnath Singh SCO Meeting : Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh took a firm position on terrorism during a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Speaking in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, he said terrorism could not be justified under any circumstances and that double standards on the issue were unacceptable. Pakistan's Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar was also present during the meeting. Rajnath Singh described terrorism as a serious threat to regional peace, economic development and international cooperation.
No Double Standards on Terrorism
Rajnath Singh said terrorism was a major obstacle to development. It not only causes loss of life but also negatively affects trade, investment and social stability. He explained that terrorism encourages radicalisation within societies and deprives young people of opportunities for a better future. According to him, different standards should not be applied to different countries or organisations when taking action against terrorism.
Statement Made in Ishaq Dar's Presence
Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was present during Rajnath Singh's address at the SCO meeting. A video shared by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry shows both leaders seated at the same table. India has consistently called for stronger action against terrorism at regional forums. In his address, Rajnath Singh emphasised the need to take action against individuals and organisations that provide financial assistance to terrorists, support them or offer them safe havens.
Targeting the Entire Terror Network
India's position has been that preventing terrorist attacks alone is not enough; the entire network supporting terrorism must also be dismantled. This includes systems that finance terrorism, recruit members, promote radicalisation and provide safe havens. Earlier, in September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also emphasised the need to eliminate the entire ecosystem of terrorism in the context of the SCO. India maintains that cooperation and accountability among member countries are essential for regional security.
Tensions Increased After the Pahalgam Attack
An April 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killed 26 people. India subsequently launched Operation Sindoor, escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan. India has accused Pakistan of supporting terrorists and providing them with safe havens, while security-related issues continue to strain relations between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi had also previously criticised Pakistan in remarks contrasting tourism with terrorism, describing terrorism as a serious threat to regional and global security.
Attention Turns to the SCO's Role
SCO member countries face important challenges involving terrorism, regional security and economic cooperation. Rajnath Singh's address once again highlighted India's demand for collective action against terrorism and accountability without discrimination. However, effective cooperation will depend on whether member countries can reach a consensus and take concrete steps. The actual impact of the meeting will depend on how far participating countries translate their statements into practical action.
