Mumbai– Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) President and former Union Defence Minister Sharad Pawar said Monday that U.S. President Donald Trump’s reported mediation between India and Pakistan is “inappropriate” and goes against the framework established under the Shimla Agreement.
Speaking to reporters, Pawar reminded that the 1972 Shimla Agreement—signed between then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistani President Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto—explicitly states that disputes between the two nations must be resolved bilaterally, without third-party intervention.
“The Shimla Agreement denied any third-party involvement. It clearly says both countries will resolve their issues without external mediation. So why should anyone interfere?” Pawar questioned, firmly opposing President Trump’s unilateral announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan via social media platform X.
“This is the first time an American authority has publicly made such a declaration. That is not appropriate,” Pawar added, referencing Trump’s claims that he used the promise of trade to de-escalate tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations following Operation Sindoor.
Asked about demands for a special session of Parliament in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor and the subsequent cross-border military exchanges, Pawar said he had no objection to such a session being convened. However, he cautioned that national security concerns may limit how much information the government can share publicly.
“Sensitive defense matters cannot always be disclosed. If a session is necessary, let it be held. But I suggest a meeting of all party leaders where defense officials can brief us on the situation and India’s actions post-ceasefire,” he said.
Pawar also commented on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned national address at 8 p.m., noting that the media and the public should wait to hear from the Prime Minister before drawing conclusions. “You (media) listen, I’ll listen too. Then we can talk. But the government must explain the extent of U.S. involvement,” he emphasized.
Responding to the ceasefire announcement, Pawar reiterated that India has never supported terrorism and that the military action taken during Operation Sindoor was targeted and justified.
“Operation Sindoor was a necessary and precise response against terrorist camps. There was never any intent to target Pakistani military facilities or civilians. The action was essential for our national security,” he stated.
Pawar stressed that India has consistently responded to provocation from Pakistan with restraint and responsibility. “India’s actions were carried out in the spirit of global peace. We have always championed dialogue and diplomacy. If developments are moving in that direction, we welcome it,” he said.
He concluded by urging the global community to remain vigilant and unified in the fight against terrorism. “It is the international community’s collective duty to take firm action against terrorism. Every step toward peace strengthens our united stand against this global threat.” (Source: IANS)
