The Govt dispatches seven delegations to various countries to present its perspective on the Indo-Pak conflict
In the wake of heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s swift military response under “Operation Sindoor,†the Modi government has embarked on a bold and strategic diplomatic campaign — dispatching seven all-party delegations to key international capitals. These delegations, which include voices from across the political spectrum, aim to assert India’s uncompromising stance against terrorism and unify international opinion in support of New Delhi’s position. This outreach isn’t just a routine diplomatic exercise — it’s a calibrated move with far-reaching implications for India’s global standing, security narrative, and internal democratic ethos. India’s relations with Pakistan have always been delicate, often swinging between dialogue and confrontation. However, after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and subsequent military operations, there’s an urgent need for India to take charge of the international narrative. By sending high-level delegations to countries that are members of the United Nations Security Council and other strategic partners, India seeks to disseminate a unified national message: Terrorism, particularly cross-border terrorism, is an assult on India and thus has a right to retaliate and strike back. India’s outreach emphasises zero tolerance for terrorism and seeks to convey to the global community that the entire Indian political class stands united against such threats. With Pakistan expected to launch its own international counter-narrative, India’s proactive engagement is essential to highlight ground realities and reinforce its moral and strategic position.
The inclusion of opposition leaders demonstrates that India can rise above partisan divides when national interest is at stake—a trait that strengthens India’s global image as a mature democracy.
The Modi government’s invitation to senior Congress leader and former UN diplomat Shashi Tharoor to lead one of the delegations has been largely praised, but it hasn’t come without controversy. Tharoor, despite being a vocal critic of the Modi regime on several fronts, accepted the role unhesitatingly. Besides, the consideration of Mani Shankar Aiyar—a figure often mired in controversy and known for his candid and sometimes polarising remarks— to lead delegation to Gulf countries sparked some internal criticism within Congress circles. While some party members frowned upon the decision, the Congress leadership has wisely chosen not to express any formal dissent. Its silence can be seen as tacit endorsement of the idea that in matters of national importance all have to cooperate regardless of political animosities. Critics who see this move as unusual or driven by political motives should remember that this isn’t unprecedented. India has a long-standing tradition of cross-party cooperation in international diplomacy. One of the most notable examples dates back to Jawaharlal Nehru, who sent Atal Bihari Vajpayee, then a rising star in the opposition, to the United Nations to advocate India’s position during a critical period. The message is loud and clear: when it comes to India’s sovereignty, security, and global standing, all Indians speak in one voice!
