External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar delivered a strong and unequivocal message regarding India's stance on its relationship with Pakistan, making it clear that the era of "uninterrupted dialogue" between the two nations is firmly behind us. In his remarks at a book launch event in Delhi on Friday, Jaishankar emphasized that "actions have consequences," particularly in the context of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, and reiterated that New Delhi’s position remains steadfast—terrorism and meaningful talks cannot coexist.
Jaishankar’s comments were direct and uncompromising. He stated that "the era of uninterrupted dialogue with Pakistan is over" and underscored the notion that actions, particularly those involving cross-border terrorism, would not go without consequences. This aligns with India’s longstanding position that it will not engage in dialogue with Pakistan as long as terrorism continues to be a state-sponsored strategy by Islamabad.
The minister also made it abundantly clear that there would be no compromise on the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly concerning Article 370, which was abrogated by the Indian government in 2019, effectively removing the special status previously granted to the region. "So far as Jammu and Kashmir is concerned, Article 370 is done. So, the issue is what kind of relationship we can contemplate with Pakistan," Jaishankar said, signaling that any discussions with Pakistan would not include reversing this decision.
In his address, Jaishankar also highlighted India's proactive approach in its dealings with Pakistan, asserting that India would not be passive in response to developments. "What I do want to say is that we are not passive, and whether events take a positive or a negative direction, either way, we will react," he said. This statement reinforces India's position that it will respond decisively to any provocations or overtures from Pakistan, be they positive or negative.
Jaishankar, who has consistently been vocal about India’s unwillingness to overlook terrorism in the name of diplomacy, pointed out that terrorism has become an "industry-level" issue in Pakistan. He emphasized that India’s current stance is one of zero tolerance toward such threats. He also highlighted that Pakistan’s core strategy of using cross-border terrorism as leverage to bring India to the negotiating table has been rendered ineffective by India’s refusal to engage on such terms.
In addition to addressing the India-Pakistan relationship, Jaishankar also commented on the situation in Bangladesh, which has experienced political turmoil following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, as well as challenges related to law and order, including targeted attacks on the minority Hindu community. The foreign minister acknowledged that regime changes can be disruptive but emphasized that India would continue to engage with the government in power. "Naturally, we will deal with the government of the day," Jaishankar said, while also noting that mutual interest and cooperation are essential in navigating the challenges that come with having neighbors.
Jaishankar’s remarks on Bangladesh come in the context of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent concerns over the safety of Hindus and other minorities in the country amidst the ongoing unrest. PM Modi had earlier spoken with Muhammad Yunus, the chief adviser of Bangladesh's caretaker government, who assured the Prime Minister of the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs later noted in a readout of the call that Yunus claimed reports of attacks on minorities were exaggerated and invited Indian journalists to visit Bangladesh to report on the situation from the ground.
Jaishankar's comments reflect India’s broader foreign policy approach, which is increasingly defined by a firm and proactive stance on issues of national security, particularly in its relations with neighboring countries. The minister’s statements serve as a clear indication that India will continue to prioritize its security and strategic interests, responding firmly to any actions that threaten its sovereignty or the safety of its citizens.
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