Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has said he is “disappointed” with the Colombian government’s reaction to India’s recent military action, Operation Sindoor. The operation was carried out by India in response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. The attack was traced to a group based in Pakistan, prompting India to launch precise strikes on terror camps across the border.
During his official visit to Colombia as part of a multi-party Indian parliamentary delegation, Tharoor addressed both the media and local officials. He pointed out that Colombia had expressed condolences for the loss of lives in Pakistan following India’s anti-terror operation, but did not mention or acknowledge the Indian victims of terrorism. Tharoor remarked that this approach was “a little disappointing”, especially coming from a country like Colombia, which has itself suffered from terrorism in the past.
Act of Self-Defence
Tharoor explained that Operation Sindoor was a carefully planned response, targeting only terrorist infrastructure and avoiding civilian or military targets. He emphasised that India acted in self-defence, not aggression, after repeated provocations and attacks from across the border. Tharoor said that there should be no confusion between those who send terrorists and those who defend their people from such attacks.
He also reminded Colombia of its own history with terrorism, expressing hope that the Colombian government would better understand India’s position. Tharoor underlined that India’s fight is not with the people of Pakistan, but with the terror groups that operate from there. He urged the international community, including Colombia, to recognise the difference between a country protecting its citizens and those who give shelter to terrorists.
Tharoor said, “We are here to clarify any misunderstanding. We hope that other governments will support India’s right to self-defence and not equate our actions with those of terrorists.” He added that India is always open for dialogue and wishes for friendly relations with all countries, but expects understanding and support in its fight against terrorism.