New Delhi, Jun 5 (PTI) – In a significant development aimed at countering Pakistan's narrative on Operation Sindoor, India successfully communicated its stance, particularly to member nations of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Following terror activities conducted across the border, Islamabad sought support, but Shiv Sena leader Shrikant Shinde emphasized India's zero tolerance for terrorism during global outreach efforts.
Shinde led a multi-party delegation to countries including the UAE and West African nations like Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Congo. This 14-day visit centered on interactions with government officials, parliamentarians, think tanks, and the Indian diaspora. "Our visit enabled us to dismantle the propaganda spread by Pakistan. We presented undeniable evidence that showcased how Pakistan initiated cross-border terror attacks against India," Shinde stated, underscoring the mission's success.
The delegation comprised political figures such as Bansuri Swaraj (BJP), E T Mohammad Basheer (IUML), and others, including former officials. Highlighting the contrast, Shinde remarked, "While India is contributing to global technology and trade, Pakistan is notorious for exporting terrorism, harboring figures like Osama bin Laden for years." He noted the UAE and Sierra Leone's inclusion in the OIC and the election of Congo and Liberia as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for 2026-28.
"We emphasized Pakistan’s misuse of religion to propagate terrorism, seeking to expose how it appeals to OIC nations under the guise of protecting Muslim interests," said Shinde. The reception in the UAE was particularly notable. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, assured robust support for India, condemning any nation exploiting religion for terror.
The visit to West African nations also served to illuminate the persistent threat of terrorism, receiving responses such as Sierra Leone's condemnation of the Pahalgam attack, attributed to Pakistan. This marked a significant instance where one OIC member condemned actions of another, reflecting the impact of India's diplomatic efforts.
Beyond terrorism, the visit sought to bolster economic ties. West African leaders expressed a desire for India’s increased involvement in trade and investment, leveraging the region’s rich resources. A report detailing the outcomes and expectations will be submitted to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.
Shinde contrasted India and Pakistan's economic trajectories since their respective independences in 1947. With India’s economy reaching $4 trillion compared to Pakistan’s $500 million, he highlighted India's progress and global standing, including extending aid worldwide.
Regarding Pakistan’s efforts to counter India’s diplomatic moves, Shinde criticized their approach, suggesting that their focus remains on destabilizing India via terrorism. He highlighted groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Muhammad as symbols of such intentions.
Shinde criticized the Indian political narrative surrounding Operation Sindoor, particularly targeting Congress figures. He urged unity against terrorism and advised against divisive politics, rebuking remarks by opposition leaders such as Rahul Gandhi, noting how such statements could be weaponized against India by adversaries like Pakistan.
Ultimately, India remains committed to projecting its stance against terrorism, reinforcing its narrative globally, and engaging productively with the international community. Shinde's delegation reflects this broader diplomatic strategy and India’s ongoing commitment to fortifying its global position.
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