We must strike at the roots of terrorism, says Eluri Srinivasa

Eluri Srinivasa Rao, a permanent member of the UN Economic and Social Council and a native of Telangana, stated that any act of massacre must be universally condemned. He emphasised that Islamic terrorism is shaking the world and opined that the roots of such extremism must be completely destroyed. He stressed that atrocities carried out in the name of religion should never be tolerated.

War-like atmosphere between India and Pakistan has started. What will be the international impact?

Islamic terrorism is troubling many countries across the world — America, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Thailand, China, India, Israel, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, and several African nations are all victims of terrorism.

What measures should governments take to completely eradicate terrorism?

Foreign funding to Pakistan must be stopped. International organisations should warn Pakistan to abandon terrorism. The government there needs to become strong and democratic. A reformer like Mustafa Kemal, who rid Turkey of terrorism, is needed. Educational opportunities should be provided for the people, and efforts must be made to improve facilities.

Is it true that some local people in Kashmir support terrorists?

There is some truth to that. Many locals there do not identify themselves as Indians but as Kashmiris. However, that does not mean they are all terrorists. It’s the support from a few individuals to Pakistani terrorists that leads to occasional attacks. We must focus on providing employment to the youth in Jammu and Kashmir and take measures to develop tourism. Islamic gatherings that incite people should be banned. There should be surveillance on provocative speeches. Those sympathetic to terrorism should be introduced to Indian culture. As a result, the number of locals supporting terrorists will gradually decrease.

If war breaks out, which countries are likely to support whom?

All countries that want to eradicate the Islamic terrorism spreading secretly in their lands will stand together. Even China has been shaken by these extremists and has already eliminated many of them. Israel, with the world’s most advanced war technology, stands as India’s supporter. Countries like Iran, Iraq, and Turkey may possibly assist Pakistan. However, they have already been suppressed by America and Israel. Overall, it’s likely the conflict would end within a week or ten days. There’s even a chance that Balochistan could emerge as an independent country.

There’s speculation that if China supports Pakistan, the damage could be immense. Are such conditions present?

This is not true. Although China has long provided indirect support to Pakistan, recent information suggests that it will no longer do so. To reduce the burden of tariffs imposed by America, India and China are coming together. To balance the international market, India and China will need to work jointly. Currently, India ranks fifth in the global economy. At such a time, China has no intention of creating unnecessary trouble with India over an unhelpful country like Pakistan.

Has the Pakistani government become a puppet in the hands of terrorists?

Pakistan is a democracy only in name. There, the army, ISI, and terrorists together run the government. In our country (India), the army does not interfere in governance. But in Pakistan, there is a system where the army and terrorists can take over the government.

Tell us about yourself and your role at the UN

I am originally from Khammam district. Currently, I am serving as a permanent member of the UN Economic and Social Council, representing India. From India, only one person represents at the UN, and they are called the UN Permanent Member. We go to the Economic and Social Council through NGOs. I serve as Secretary General and UN Permanent Representative for the NGO called the International Commission of Culture and Diplomatic Relations. Recently, I was appointed Brigadier General and Territory Commander in the Inter-Government Organization International Police Commission Global Command, which has its headquarters in Manila, Philippines.

Interview conducted  by ‘Namasthe Telangana’