External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has launched a scathing critique against what he referred to as the “International Khan Market gang,” during an exclusive interview with ANI. The term, he explained, denotes an upscale, liberal elite group that, in an election year, disdains Bharat and seeks to influence Bharatiya politics for the benefit of a narrow minority.
Jaishankar highlighted a symbiotic relationship between Western media and this ‘Khan Market Gang’, describing it as an elitist left-liberal thought process. He accused them of demeaning Bharat by echoing cues from the Indian media or political system.
#WATCH | On Western media reporting about India, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, "… I want to tell you, there is an international Khan market gang as well. These are people who are sort of linked to the entitled people out here. They are socially comfortable with them… So I think… pic.twitter.com/PzhsXBaIdU
— ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2024
The Minister expressed concern over the negative portrayal of Bharat by this ecosystem, alleging their endorsement of political parties and leaders during elections. He described this as an attempt to influence voters and sway the direction of Bharatiya politics.
Jaishankar emphasized that this influence extends beyond elections, persistently attempting to demoralize and delegitimize Bharat. He criticized Western media for its systematic bombardment of negative information about Bharat, which, he believes, influences public opinion.
Despite these challenges, Jaishankar noted that the Bharatiya public generally recognizes and resists these narratives. He recalled instances such as the 26/11 attacks, where international praise for Bharatiya restraint was viewed with suspicion.
Addressing concerns about the Ministry of External Affairs’ response to critical editorials, Jaishankar asserted that it is their duty to contest, convince, and communicate against unfair or untruthful narratives.
He rejected the notion that diplomacy involves turning the other, stating that it’s a sign of weakness. Instead, he stressed the importance of defending Bharat’s interests and calling out biased narratives.
Regarding recent comments from the US State Department about democracy being under threat in Bharat, Jaishankar defended Bharat’s legal processes, stating that politicians are not exempt from the law due to political considerations. He argued that the law operates independently of political cycles and must proceed impartially.
Jaishankar highlighted the need to confront and challenge unfair portrayals of Bharat, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law while navigating political complexities.
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