In New Delhi, S Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, expressed a critical perspective on several pivotal decisions made during the governance of Jawaharlal Nehru. He emphasized the necessity to break free from the fixation on the notion that the period from 1946 onwards constituted “glorious years” for the nation. According to Jaishankar, this era was ensnared in a “Nehruvian ideological bubble,” particularly in matters of foreign policy, and remnants of this mindset persist to this day.
Transitioning from a career in diplomacy to politics, Jaishankar delved into various topics including India’s role in the G20 presidency, the contentious Citizenship (Amendment) Act, the revocation of Article 370, and the current dynamics of India’s relationships with China and Pakistan within the geopolitical landscape. Reflecting on the early years post-independence, Jaishankar highlighted instances where he believes the government faltered in its foreign policy approach.
He underscored the importance of reevaluating historical decisions made during Nehru’s tenure, pointing out that contemporaries of that era had raised questions and concerns regarding the path chosen by the leadership. Referencing the perspectives of figures like Syama Prasad Mookerjee and B R Ambedkar, Jaishankar aimed to challenge the prevailing narrative of unwavering praise for Nehru’s foreign policy doctrine.
Jaishankar urged for a departure from the blind veneration of Nehruvian principles, suggesting a more critical examination of past policies. He emphasized the need for introspection and reassessment, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of India’s historical choices.
Regarding India’s relations with neighboring Pakistan, Jaishankar noted a minimal formal engagement, attributing this stance to India’s firm stance against terrorism and Pakistan’s response to the abrogation of Article 370.
Asserting that foreign policy should not be driven by a quest for global approval, Jaishankar cautioned against adopting an appeasement mentality domestically, which could undermine the country’s international standing.
Touching upon domestic politics and the foreign policies of the Narendra Modi government, Jaishankar highlighted the administration’s proactive stance on issues such as Operation Ganga and Operation Vande Bharat during the Covid-19 pandemic. He emphasized the concept of “Modi ki Guarantee,” asserting that the government is committed to safeguarding national interests and welfare.
Jaishankar addressed criticisms of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, framing it as an endeavor to rectify historical injustices faced by certain communities during Partition. He emphasized the need to acknowledge and rectify past wrongs, rather than perpetuate them.
Throughout his discourse, Jaishankar advocated for a more nuanced and critical approach to understanding India’s historical decisions and current foreign policy landscape.