"In Pakistan, you get rewarded for promoting terrorism": Shashi Tharoor

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has launched a strong criticism of Pakistan’s treatment of Dr. Shakil Afridi—the Pakistani doctor who helped the US track down Osama bin Laden—saying the country "rewards those who promote terrorism and punishes those who expose it." Tharoor made the remarks while leading an all-party parliamentary delegation to the United States.

Responding to US Congressman Brad Sherman's appeal urging Pakistan to release Dr. Afridi, Tharoor highlighted how Afridi, who played a crucial role in aiding the US intelligence operation that killed bin Laden, continues to suffer in jail. He contrasted this with Pakistan’s alleged history of harbouring terrorists, adding, "Pakistan not only sheltered Osama near a military base but jailed the doctor who helped catch him."

During their visit, the Indian delegation also met US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and briefed him on the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor. The group also held talks with US Vice President J.D. Vance to discuss regional security and India’s fight against terrorism.

In a symbolic gesture, the delegation paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue opposite the Indian Embassy in Washington, continuing a tradition of honoring the apostle of peace in every country visited.