Jaishankar
In a fiery debate in Parliament over Operation Sindoor, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took the floor with a strong defense of the government’s foreign policy decisions while launching a scathing attack on the Opposition benches. The session, which was initially meant to review the evacuation operation from conflict-hit areas, turned into a heated political exchange, with Jaishankar calling out the Opposition’s lack of clarity and unity on national issues.
Operation Sindoor: A Diplomatic and Strategic Success
Operation Sindoor was a swift and complex evacuation mission launched by the Indian government to rescue Indian citizens stranded in a volatile foreign conflict zone. The External Affairs Ministry, in coordination with the Indian Armed Forces and diplomatic staff, orchestrated the safe return of hundreds of Indians under life-threatening circumstances.
Highlighting the successful completion of the operation, Jaishankar praised the commitment of Indian diplomats, pilots, and rescue teams. He reiterated that India’s global reputation has grown due to such proactive missions. “In the face of danger, India doesn’t retreat. We reach out, we rescue, and we bring our people back,” he said, drawing applause from the Treasury benches.
A Fiery Exchange in Parliament
The debate took a sharp political turn when several Opposition leaders raised concerns about India’s approach in international affairs and accused the government of taking credit for every foreign policy success while avoiding responsibility in failures.
Jaishankar, known for his composed but pointed rhetoric, didn’t hold back in his response. He questioned the Opposition’s consistency and accused them of politicizing national security. “Which one of you stood up and appreciated the courage of our rescue teams? Which one of you acknowledged the risk taken by our pilots?” he asked, turning directly to the Opposition leaders.
He went further to challenge their knowledge of foreign policy and international diplomacy, stating, “Some of you come to this House with ill-prepared statements and misplaced facts. This is not a classroom where you can read outdated textbooks. This is Parliament — and we are dealing with the lives of Indians abroad.”
National Unity Over Politics
Jaishankar emphasized that foreign policy should not be turned into a political football, especially when the lives of Indian citizens are at stake. “Evacuations are not about political victories. They are about national duty,” he said. He urged the Opposition to stand united in matters of external affairs rather than seeking points to criticize the government.
The Minister also reminded the House that Operation Sindoor was only the latest in a series of successful evacuations carried out under the current administration. From Operation Ganga in Ukraine, Vande Bharat Mission during COVID, to Operation Kaveri in Sudan, India’s rapid response in times of crisis has become a hallmark of its evolving global influence.
Criticism of Hypocrisy and Opportunism
Without naming names, Jaishankar accused some MPs of hypocrisy. “When we act with speed, you say we’re doing it for headlines. When we are cautious, you call it a delay. When we succeed, you say it’s propaganda. When have you ever stood with the country without calculating political dividends?”
He reminded the House that the government welcomes criticism but not “selective outrage that helps no Indian and serves no national interest.”
Broader Message to the World
Jaishankar’s speech was not just aimed at domestic audiences. It carried a message to the international community: India is a responsible, capable, and sovereign nation that looks after its citizens, no matter where they are. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and India’s expanding diplomatic network for enabling such missions.
Opposition’s Response
While some Opposition members attempted to counter Jaishankar’s claims, most chose not to respond directly to his questions. A few leaders, however, demanded greater transparency regarding India’s position in ongoing global conflicts and more briefings before major foreign operations.
Conclusion: A Defining Debate
The debate on Operation Sindoor has now become more than a review of an evacuation mission — it has turned into a flashpoint in the continuing tussle between the government and the Opposition over foreign policy. Jaishankar’s sharp words and bold stance may resonate strongly with citizens who see national security and overseas rescue as matters beyond party politics.
As the world watches India’s increasing assertiveness on the global stage, Operation Sindoor and the Parliament debate surrounding it will likely be remembered as another moment when India showcased its diplomatic strength — and when its leaders reminded each other that in matters of national interest, unity must triumph over division.
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