The Centre on Wednesday asserted that India is “not a dalaal nation like Pakistan” as it briefed Opposition leaders on the evolving West Asia crisis during an all-party meeting, amid sharp exchanges over New Delhi’s diplomatic stance.
Sources said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the remark while responding to concerns over Pakistan’s reported offer to mediate in the conflict. He is also learnt to have said that Pakistan’s role as an intermediary was not new, noting it had been “used” by the United States since 1981.
The government informed the meeting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had conveyed to US President Donald Trump that the war in West Asia must end soon as it was affecting all sides.
At the meeting convened in Parliament, the Centre stressed that its priority remained the safety of the Indian diaspora and safeguarding domestic energy supplies. It said there was no cause for panic, with adequate stocks available and diversification of crude sourcing now spanning 41 countries.
According to sources, the government highlighted that several India-bound ships carrying petroleum products had successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, while others were expected to follow soon.
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The briefing was led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, with participation from senior ministers including Amit Shah and Nirmala Sitharaman. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri presented a detailed overview of the situation.
Despite the government’s assurances, Opposition leaders termed the responses “unsatisfactory” and demanded a detailed discussion in both Houses of Parliament. Congress leader Tariq Anwar criticised the Centre, alleging that India appeared to be a “mute spectator” while Pakistan positioned itself as a mediator.
CPI(M) leader John Brittas also questioned the government’s stance, saying Opposition parties had sought a clearer position on the US strikes on Iran.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju later told reporters that all queries raised by the Opposition had been addressed comprehensively, and that parties had assured support to the government in dealing with the crisis.
The nearly two-hour meeting saw participation from leaders across parties, reflecting the gravity of the conflict and its potential implications for India’s strategic and economic interests.
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