S. Jaishankar criticized the West and UN for reclassifying Kashmir from an ‘invasion’ to a ‘dispute.’ He implicated several nations as responsible for the Kashmir situation and emphasized the necessity of a new international dialogue. Jaishankar also highlighted inconsistencies in responses to global conflicts, particularly regarding the Taliban, calling for a fairer global approach.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has articulated concerns regarding perceived double standards by the West and the United Nations regarding the Kashmir issue. He asserts that what initially represented an “invasion” has been redefined as a mere dispute. While speaking at the Raisina Dialogue 2025, he lamented that the UN has equated the aggressor with the victim in the context of Kashmir.
Jaishankar highlighted that the Kashmir conflict symbolizes the longest-standing illegal occupation since World War II, implicating nations including the UK, Canada, Belgium, Australia, and the United States as culpable parties. He stated, “We all speak of sovereignty and territorial integrity. It’s a vital principle and a bedrock of global rules… What was an invasion was made into a dispute. The attacker and the victim were put on par.”
In his critique of global governance, Jaishankar referenced the inconsistency in international responses to military coups in regions close to India, suggesting that perceptions vary depending on geographic alignment. He stressed the necessity for a reevaluation of global dynamics, emphasizing a need for “a different conversation” and a refreshed order in world affairs.
Jaishankar also addressed the shifting global perception of the Taliban, challenging the inconsistency in international engagement with the group. He noted that, despite their controversial actions, the Taliban was previously welcomed at significant international dialogues. He remarked on the duality in the treatment of extremist groups based on convenience, implying a lack of integrity in the approach of Western powers.
In conclusion, S. Jaishankar’s remarks at the Raisina Dialogue shed light on critical issues regarding international diplomacy and the inconsistent approaches taken by the West and the UN. His observations regarding the Kashmir situation and the handling of the Taliban underscore the need for a more coherent and principled framework in global governance. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, a nuanced understanding of sovereignty and accountability becomes essential for fostering international relations.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
