India raises Dhaka attack in Islamabad, appeals not to glorify terrorists

Indian Home Minister Rajnath Singh has raised the incident of Dhaka terror attack in the seventh meeting of SAARC home ministers in Islamabad.

Appealing to the SAARC countries for united fight against terrorism on Thursday, Singh said, “We are witness to mounting threats and incidents that endanger our region’s peace and stability.

“Terrorism remains the biggest challenge and threat to our peace. South Asia continues to be deeply affected by this malady, as witnessed most recently in cowardly terrorist attacks in Pathankot, Dhaka, Kabul and other places,” Singh said.

“Merely strong condemnation of such terrorist attacks is not enough. We must harden our resolve to eradicate this menace and also take serious steps to this end,” he continued.

He clarified that it also needs to be ensured that terrorism is not glorified and is not patronised by any state.

“One country’s terrorist cannot be a martyr or freedom fighter for anyone. I also speak for the entire humanity - not just for India or other SAARC members – in urging that in no circumstances should terrorists be eulogised as martyrs,” said Singh targeting Pakistan.

After the recent killing of a Hizbul Muzahiddin militant in Jammu & Kashmir by the security forces, thousands of people backed by Pakistani organisations came for an open tribute to the slain militants.

“Those who provide support, encouragement, sanctuary, safe haven or any assistance to terrorism or terrorists must be isolated,” the Indian home minister said.

“Strongest possible steps need to be taken not only against terrorists and terrorist organisations but also those individuals, institutions, organisations or nations that support them.

“Only this will ensure that the forces engaged in promoting the heinous crime of terrorism against humanity are effectively countered,” Singh said.

He disclosed that the second meeting of the High Level Group of Eminent Experts to Strengthen the SAARC Anti-Terrorism Mechanism from Sept 22-23will take place in New Delhi.