Congress MP Shashi Tharoor sent a strong message to Pakistan during a speech in Panama on May 29, 2025. Speaking at an Indian embassy event, he condemned terrorism and warned that India, the land of Mahatma Gandhi, will not stay silent. Instead, India will respond firmly to any attacks. His words come after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which shook India and targeted Kashmir’s growing tourism economy. Tharoor’s speech has sparked discussions worldwide, and this article dives into the details, reactions, and what it means for India-Pakistan relations.
Why Tharoor’s Speech Matters
Shashi Tharoor, a senior Congress leader, is leading an all-party delegation on Operation Sindoor, India’s response to the Pahalgam attack. This attack, which killed innocent people, aimed to disrupt Kashmir’s booming tourism sector. Tharoor’s speech in Panama emphasized India’s resolve to fight terrorism. He said, “We must live without fear. Freedom from fear is what India fights for against malign men called terrorists.” His words resonate with millions who want peace but demand justice.
Moreover, Tharoor criticized Pakistan’s military for attending the funerals of terrorists killed in Operation Sindoor. He pointed out, “You don’t mourn people you don’t know.” This statement has gone viral, trending on platforms like X, where users praise his clarity. For instance, posts on X call Tharoor a “lone sane voice” in Congress for his bold stance. His remarks highlight Pakistan’s alleged role in supporting terrorism, a topic that stirs emotions in India and beyond.
The Pahalgam Attack: What Happened?
On April 22, 2025, terrorists attacked Pahalgam, a popular tourist spot in Kashmir. The attack aimed to harm India’s economy, which has seen a tourism boom. Tharoor noted that Pahalgam now attracts more tourists than Aspen, Colorado. This growth, however, made it a target. The attack killed civilians, sparking outrage and leading to Operation Sindoor, a military response that targeted terrorist hideouts.
Operation Sindoor, conducted between May 8 and 10, 2025, was a success. The Border Security Force (BSF) released footage showing the destruction of Pakistani terrorist bases. The operation sent a clear message: India will not tolerate cross-border terrorism. Tharoor’s delegation, including MPs like Tejasvi Surya (BJP) and Milind Deora (Shiv Sena), is now sharing this message globally.[]
India’s Global Outreach on Terrorism
Tharoor’s Panama speech is part of India’s broader effort to unite the world against terrorism. The all-party delegation met Panama’s President Jose Raul Mulino and Foreign Minister Javier Martinez Acha. They showed evidence of Pakistani army officials mourning terrorists, proving their involvement. Tharoor’s words, “This is the country that says they are innocent,” cut deep, exposing Pakistan’s contradictions.
Furthermore, India’s outreach program emphasizes unity and brotherhood. The delegation includes diverse leaders, from BJP’s Bhubaneswar Kalita to JMM’s Sarfaraz Ahmad. This shows India’s collective resolve, regardless of political differences. The message is simple: terrorism has no place in a peaceful world.
Reactions from India and Beyond
Tharoor’s speech has sparked reactions across India, the USA, and other continents. In India, people are proud of his firm stand. Social media platforms like X are buzzing with support. One user wrote, “Tharoor’s spine is rare in Congress. He speaks for India!” In the USA, where terrorism is a shared concern, Tharoor’s words align with global anti-terror efforts. His mention of Mahatma Gandhi resonates with audiences who value peace but understand the need for action.
Kashmir’s Tourism Boom: The Target of Terror
Kashmir’s tourism has grown rapidly in recent years. In 2024, over 2 crore tourists visited the region, boosting the economy. Pahalgam, known for its scenic beauty, is a key destination. Tharoor highlighted that the attack aimed to scare tourists away and hurt local businesses. Yet, Kashmiris remain resilient. “The economy is booming, and we won’t let terrorists win,” a local hotel owner told AMERICA NEWS WORLD (ANW) in an interview. america112.com
To illustrate this growth, here’s a chart showing tourist arrivals in Kashmir from 2020 to 2024:
This chart, optimized for both mobile and computer displays, shows a steady rise in tourism, proving Kashmir’s appeal despite challenges.
India-Pakistan Relations: A Tense History
India and Pakistan have a long history of conflict, especially over terrorism. The Pahalgam attack is one of many incidents linked to Pakistan-based groups. Tharoor’s speech reminds the world of India’s patience and restraint. He said, “Even the land of Mahatma Gandhi will not turn the other cheek.” This reflects India’s shift from tolerance to action.
Additionally, Operation Sindoor’s success has boosted India’s confidence. The BSF’s retaliation caused significant damage to terrorist infrastructure. This has strengthened India’s position globally, with countries like the USA supporting its anti-terror stance.
What People Are Saying
On platforms like Quora and Reddit, users are discussing Tharoor’s speech. Many admire his eloquence and courage. A Quora user wrote, “Tharoor’s words in Panama show India means business.” Others debate the Congress party’s mixed reactions, with some calling for unity against terrorism. On Reddit, a thread about Operation Sindoor praises India’s military precision, with users sharing BSF footage. These discussions show global interest in India’s stand.
Meanwhile, young readers on Brainly and Chegg Study ask about the Pahalgam attack’s impact on Kashmir’s economy. Experts on these platforms explain that tourism, a major revenue source, faces temporary setbacks but recovers due to government support. This aligns with Tharoor’s point about Kashmir’s resilience.
Why This Matters for the USA and India
The USA, a key ally, shares India’s concerns about terrorism. Tharoor’s speech appeals to American audiences who value security. His mention of Gandhi connects with those who admire non-violence but understand the need for defense. Moreover, the USA’s role in global counter-terrorism makes Tharoor’s message relevant.
For India, Tharoor’s words boost national pride. They also remind citizens of the government’s efforts to protect them. The all-party delegation shows unity, a powerful message for voters in upcoming elections. AMERICA NEWS WORLD (ANW) spoke to a Delhi student who said, “Tharoor’s speech makes me proud to be Indian. We won’t let terrorists win.” america112.com
Emotional Impact: Fear, Pride, and Hope
Tharoor’s words stir emotions. The fear of terrorism is real, especially after the Pahalgam attack. Yet, his promise of a strong response sparks pride. People feel hopeful knowing India is taking a stand. His reference to Gandhi adds a layer of inspiration, reminding us of peace but also strength. These emotions—fear, pride, hope—make the story relatable to all ages.
For example, a Mumbai teacher told AMERICA NEWS WORLD (ANW), “Tharoor’s speech gives my students hope. They see India standing tall.” This emotional connection drives engagement, as readers share the story on social media. america112.com
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