India should do more

We must support the Centre’s efforts, but celebrating the evacuation of a fraction of Ukraine’s Indian population was uncalled for

- SALMAN KHURSHID

MY PARTY, THE Indian National Congress, like many Indian citizens free of onerous responsibility of managing important diplomatic relations, has closely observed with growing concern the unfolding of the human crisis in Ukraine as a result of military conflict between that country and Russia. Apportioning blame now is neither helpful nor useful in the long run for India to play a constructive role. There is much talk of the emergence of a new world order and it would be a pity if that happens without India’s participation and contribution. Even as our relations with Russia remain important there is great irony in being on the same side as China although our comfort level with the latter remains uncertain.

Sadly, despite efforts on both sides, escalation of the differences has led to avoidable military violence causing loss of life and property. As this opinion is being written, the first round of talks between the estranged neighbours has drawn a blank even on a temporary ceasefire. India finds itself in the unhappy situation of having friends on both sides of the conflict and, therefore, especially distressed that matters got out of hand. Undoubtedly, we have a duty to prevail on both sides and persuade them to de-escalate the conflict im-mediately and work towards peaceful military disengagement and negotiations.