Jaishankar Slams Western Double Standards Over Operation Sindoor

New Delhi: External affairs minister S. Jaishankar on Wednesday criticised what he described as Western double standards in the international response to conflicts, citing “free advice” offered to India during Operation Sindoor last year and questioning why distant countries express concern without examining levels of violence in their own regions.

Addressing members of the Indian community in Luxembourg, Jaishankar said that nations far removed from South Asia often urge India to refrain from actions that might raise tensions, yet they themselves overlook instability closer to home. He said such reactions frequently reflect self-interest rather than genuine concern. “People sitting far away will say things, sometimes with application of mind, sometimes not, sometimes with self-interest, sometimes carelessly,” he remarked, adding that countries tend to act only when it is of direct benefit to them.

Jaishankar also explained that India engages constructively with countries willing to cooperate positively, while it deals differently with nations that do not, alluding to the varied approach India takes with different neighbours.

In the same interaction, he reiterated India’s evolving partnership with Luxembourg and broader cooperation in political, business and technology spheres, and appreciated the role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening bilateral ties.

Jaishankar further criticised Pakistan for its longstanding policy of supporting training camps for terrorists and said that such behaviour necessitates a distinct diplomatic approach compared with India’s relations with constructive neighbours.

He also referenced recent tariff volatility affecting Indian exports, indicating that despite challenges, Indian exports performed better than expected last year.