Extremist forces shouldn’t get space: Jaishankar
The News Freedom
Gandhinagar, December 23
External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, expressed deep concern on Saturday regarding vandalism of a Swami Narayan temple in Newark of USA. Jaishankar emphasised the need to deny space to extremist and separatist elements, adding that action had been taken following the incident.
“I have seen it. Extremists, separatists and such forces should not be given space. Our Consulate there complained to the government and the police and an inquiry is underway,” said the External Affairs Minister.
Speaking to reporters at the Rashtriya Raksha University’s third convocation here, Jaishankar reflected on the matter of terrorism, asserting that India had encountered terrorism since its independence. He pointed out the Mumbai 26/11 attacks as a turning point in the nation’s perception of terrorism, indicating a shift in public opinion and strategic approach.
“ I know that people who said, oh, we had a very smart strategy of turning the other cheek. I don’t think that’s just the mood of the nation. I don’t think it makes sense. I don’t think it makes strategic sense. If somebody is practising cross-border terrorism you must respond, you must extract, impose a cost out there,” Jaishankar further said.
Addressing the recent arrest of Nikhil Gupta in the Czech Republic for allegedly plotting an assassination alongside an Indian official, Jaishankar confirmed that consular access had been granted three times to the arrested Indian citizen.
Regarding the absence of the United States and Canada from the list of partner countries for the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, Jaishankar refrained from attributing any political significance to this omission. He said that invitations to the summit were contingent upon government-level decisions and asserted that India sought to encourage maximum participation, deflecting concerns about political implications.
“Numerous countries have expressed their interest in participating in Vibrant Gujarat, and our intent is to extend support. We encourage direct engagement with the Government of Gujarat for further details,” Jaishankar said.