S. Jaishankar’s UNGA speech denounces Pakistan’s dual strategy of aggression and false diplomacy regarding Kashmir and cross-border terrorism. He articulates India’s firm response to Pakistani provocations and asserts that Pakistan must end its terrorist activities as a prerequisite for dialogue, while also interpreting Pakistan’s economic struggles as a result of its choices.
In his recent speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar strongly articulated India’s stance against Pakistan’s ongoing dual practices concerning terrorism and regional diplomacy. Jaishankar made it clear that every provocation from Pakistan would be met with an appropriate response from India, emphasizing that the responses would not be limited to military action alone. This firm approach comes in the context of India’s request for modifications to the 1960 Indus Water Treaty—arrangements that Pakistan has obstructed, consequently hampering India’s water rights amid rampant cross-border terrorism affecting Jammu and Kashmir. The minister’s remarks were particularly pointed following a speech from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who attempted to draw parallels between the issues in Gaza and Kashmir. In a rebuttal, Jaishankar questioned the legitimacy of Pakistan’s assertions regarding Kashmir and described how Pakistan’s economy has been deteriorating partly due to its ongoing religious radicalization. He underscored India’s intention to reclaim control over occupied Kashmir and dismantle Pakistan’s terrorist infrastructure. This declaration precedes Jaishankar’s anticipated visit to Pakistan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, scheduled for mid-October. Jaishankar’s address was also a clear signal to both Pakistan and its sympathizers in India, reaffirming that the Modi administration is well aware of Islamabad’s ulterior motives. For years, Pakistani leaders have maintained a façade of seeking dialogue with India while simultaneously attacking India’s position on Kashmir, regardless of which party holds power in New Delhi. The minister’s speech is indicative of a shift in India’s diplomatic strategy towards a more assertive and uncompromising stance. Moreover, Jaishankar articulated that Pakistan’s cessation of cross-border terrorism would be essential for any meaningful bilateral discussions between the two nations, insisting that the situation had reached a point where inaction is no longer an option. In a particularly striking comment, he remarked that “Karma” had reduced Pakistan to a state of poverty, elucidating the consequences of its historical choices.
The underlying tensions between India and Pakistan have persisted for decades, primarily revolving around the territorial dispute over Kashmir and issues of cross-border terrorism. The Indus Water Treaty, established in 1960, governs the usage of river waters between the two nations but is now under scrutiny due to Pakistan’s actions inhibiting India’s water rights amid ongoing terrorist activities. The current geopolitical climate is increasingly challenging, especially with Pakistan’s government leveraging international platforms to promote its narrative while India seeks to counter these claims effectively.
In conclusion, Minister Jaishankar’s remarks at the UNGA underscore a pivotal moment in India’s foreign policy towards Pakistan, marking a transition towards a more assertive and uncompromising demeanor. By recognizing Pakistan’s dual approach of aggression and dialogue, the Indian government intends to demonstrate that it will respond robustly to hostile actions. The emphasis on the cessation of cross-border terrorism as a precondition for dialogue reflects India’s commitment to national security and regional stability.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
