“India is not a dalal like Pakistan” : S Jaishankar

• At the all-party meeting in Parliament, opposition’s demand that India play a mediating role

• Rebuked by External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar

New Delhi – In the context of the ongoing conflict between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other, an all-party meeting was convened in Parliament on 25 March. During the meeting, Congress leader Tariq Anwar stated that “while Pakistan is playing the role of a mediator in this war, India has remained a silent spectator.” (Those who are in love with Pakistan must be deported to Pakistan. – Editor)

Responding sharply, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, “India is not a dalal nation like Pakistan. We do not mediate on behalf of anyone.”

Addressing opposition’s allegations that the government has remained silent, the government stated that it has been consistently responding to the situation. However, the opposition termed the responses unsatisfactory and demanded a discussion on the issue in both Houses of Parliament.

Supply chain continuity is India’s diplomatic success

The Union Government stated that despite the conflict in the Middle East, the situation in India remains completely under control. There is adequate availability of crude oil, LPG, and other essential supplies in the country. India’s refineries boast a strong refining capacity; therefore, supply has not been affected. So far, four shipments have arrived, and further supplies are expected to continue. Iran has reopened supply routes after five days.

India is in contact with all countries and is engaging in active diplomacy. Ensuring uninterrupted supply chains is being seen as a diplomatic success for India. Indian embassies abroad are actively ensuring the safety of Indian citizens, and there is full preparedness for evacuation if required.

The two-hour meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, discussed the situation in the Middle East and the availability of oil and gas in the country. Several Union ministers attended the meeting, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi were absent. The All India Trinamool Congress did not participate in the meeting.