Strong Diplomatic and Military Response to Violence

India has reaffirmed its firm stance against cross-border terrorism following recent attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, including the Reasi attack and the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people, many of them tourists. In his first remarks since being reappointed, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that “terrorism cannot be the policy of a good neighbour,” signalling that the issue remains a central point in India’s relationship with Pakistan.

Jaishankar acknowledged recent overtures from former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif but maintained that India expects concrete action against terrorism emanating from across the border.

'Operation Sindoor' Targets Terror Infrastructure

In response to the Pahalgam incident, the Indian armed forces launched 'Operation Sindoor' in the early hours of Wednesday. The operation targeted nine suspected terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, including facilities linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke.

The operation followed a directive from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, issued on April 29, giving the military “full operational freedom” to determine an appropriate and timely response.

Public Reactions: National Unity and Support for Armed Forces

The military response has received broad expressions of support across Indian society. Prominent public figures from sports and entertainment voiced messages of solidarity with the armed forces and condemnation of terrorism.

Athletes such as Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Irfan Pathan, and Saina Nehwal shared messages promoting unity and resilience. Similar support came from Bollywood and regional cinema personalities including Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Allu Arjun, and Kangana Ranaut, who emphasized the importance of national security and justice for the victims.

While such reactions reflect widespread national sentiment following terror incidents, analysts have also pointed to the need for sustained dialogue and measured diplomacy to address the underlying security challenges in the region.

Focus on Foreign Policy Priorities

Beyond recent security developments, Jaishankar outlined the foreign policy direction of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for the new term. He highlighted two guiding principles: “Bharat First” and “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family), indicating an approach that balances national interest with global engagement.

On China, Jaishankar reiterated India's position regarding unresolved issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), referring to the military standoff that began in 2020. He stated that addressing tensions with Beijing remains a priority.

Relations with the Maldives also featured in the Minister's remarks, noting a positive meeting with President Mohamed Muizzu during his recent visit to New Delhi.

Assessment of MEA’s Recent Track Record

Reflecting on the MEA’s work from 2019 to 2024, Jaishankar described the ministry’s performance as “exceptional.” He cited India’s leadership during its G20 presidency, as well as the successful evacuation of Indian nationals from global crisis zones, including the war in Ukraine, as evidence of the ministry’s capability and global responsiveness.

As regional and global tensions continue, India’s diplomatic strategy appears to be rooted in maintaining security while strengthening its international partnerships. How this balance is managed will likely shape the MEA’s agenda in the coming years.