What Did India's Parliamentary Delegation Discover About Global Support Against Terrorism?

India's Diplomatic Mission in the U.S.

Washington: An Indian parliamentary delegation, currently engaged in diplomatic discussions in the United States, has reported a notable absence of sympathy for Pakistan and a strong endorsement of India's position regarding cross-border terrorism.

During a press briefing on Wednesday, Shashi Tharoor, the head of the delegation and a Congress MP, stated, "Our goal in each country is to share our perspective on recent events and to garner solidarity and understanding from those we engage with."

"I am pleased to report that our success rate has been exceptional—every individual we have met has condemned the terrorist attacks on India and expressed their outrage and sympathy. They have also affirmed India's right to defend itself against terrorism, which has been greatly appreciated," he added.

Tharoor characterized the recent Pahalgam terror attack as a shocking incident that disrupted a period of economic and social progress in Kashmir.

"Kashmir was thriving, with many tourists visiting and benefiting the local economy. It was a beautiful time, and then this innocent group of holidaymakers was brutally attacked by individuals who inquired about their religion before shooting them," he remarked.

"This was a horrifying act, and the nation united in support of the government's response, which aligned with the wishes of most citizens," he continued.

He elaborated on India's measured military response and the subsequent ceasefire.

"If you review the government's daily briefings, the message was clear: we retaliate because we are being attacked. If they cease their actions, we will too. After 88 hours, the Pakistani Director General of Military Operations contacted his Indian counterpart to propose a ceasefire, which we accepted," Tharoor explained.

On the topic of Pakistan's international standing, Tharoor posed critical questions, "Where was Osama bin Laden? Who was responsible for the Mumbai attacks? Which terrorist organizations are recognized by the UN? These are undeniable facts, and they are aware of this reality."

When asked how foreign representatives reacted to India's narrative regarding Pakistan's actions, Tharoor noted, "It was not surprising that no one expressed affection for Pakistan. Everyone either accepted our account or explicitly stated their lack of sympathy for Pakistan's actions."

He summarized the prevailing sentiment in Washington as one of "complete support and solidarity with India's fight against terrorism" and a "full understanding of India's right to self-defense."

Tejasvi Surya, a BJP MP and fellow delegation member, criticized Pakistan's claims of peace.

"Bhutto's delegation is labeled a peace delegation, which is ironic, as Pakistan's rhetoric of peace resembles the devil quoting scripture. They attempt to fabricate heroes by promoting failed generals to field marshals. They lack true leadership," he stated.

Surya emphasized that India's stance received clear backing abroad.

"In the countries we visited and during discussions with various senators and Congress members, there was absolutely no sympathy for Pakistan's position. There has been unequivocal support for India's stance," he added.

Taranjit Singh Sandhu, former Indian Ambassador to the U.S. and a member of the delegation, reiterated the global stakes involved in India's fight.

"These terrorists have previously threatened the United States, and you have witnessed terrorism here. They could do so again in the future. Thus, India is fighting a battle on behalf of the world," he remarked.

The delegation comprises a diverse political representation, including Shambhavi Choudhary from the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Sarfaraz Ahmad from the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, Milind Murli Deora from the Shiv Sena, Bhubaneswar Kalita and Tejasvi Surya from the BJP, and GM Harish Balayogi from the Telugu Desam Party, a National Democratic Alliance partner.