Why Shouldn’t Everyone Support Actions in the National Interest? Salman Khurshid Speaks Out

New Delhi, June 5 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader and former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid, who participated in an all-party parliamentary delegation for the 'Operation Sindoor' diplomatic outreach effort, asserted that every action taken in the national interest should garner support from all political sides.

In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Khurshid responded to internal party criticism regarding the ongoing diplomatic initiative and highlighted the necessity for unity when advocating for the country internationally. He posed a rhetorical question: if one is representing their nation abroad, is it an easy or difficult task? If someone is undertaking this responsibility, why should there be any dissent?

His comments came shortly after he expressed his concerns on social media platform X on Monday, lamenting the domestic political discord while he was engaged in a mission against terrorism. "When on a mission to convey India’s stance globally in the fight against terrorism, it’s disheartening that individuals at home are focused on political loyalties. Is it really so hard to be patriotic?" he remarked during the delegation's trip to Kuala Lumpur.

Key excerpts from the interview:

IANS: As a member of the all-party delegation, how successful do you think the outreach was?

Salman Khurshid: I believe it was quite successful. Our aim was to connect with various countries and encourage them to move beyond mere sympathy—taking tangible actions against terrorism. This threat affects not just India but many countries globally. We stressed the importance of international collaboration in combatting this issue, and the feedback was positive.

IANS: Regarding your post on X where you questioned, "Is it so difficult to be patriotic?" what did you mean?

Salman Khurshid: That’s precisely my inquiry, and I haven’t received an adequate response. If someone must go abroad to represent the country, is that an arduous task? If they are doing so, why raise objections? I see it as a positive endeavor. Hence, I believe that whatever serves the nation’s interest should be universally supported.

IANS: Even though you deem the outreach successful, your party has raised concerns. Congress MP Jairam Ramesh remarked, "While terrorists roam freely, so do our MPs." How do you reply?

Salman Khurshid: Jairam Ramesh is correct; we were indeed traveling. However, if we had not been traveling, we would have been inactive. I’ve already communicated our initiatives and accomplishments to both my party and the government. To clarify, I was sent by the Congress; I did not undertake this mission independently. I appreciate the opportunity and hope the party acknowledges our efforts.

IANS: You endorsed the abrogation of Article 370 during your address in Indonesia. What are your thoughts on this?

Salman Khurshid: Why raise that question with me? I do not reside in Jammu and Kashmir, though I visit occasionally. The rightness or wrongness of the decision is a topic of ongoing public discourse. Nonetheless, the pressing matter of statehood persists, and elected officials are advocating for its restoration. Uniting to support this demand would be advantageous for all.

IANS: What’s your perspective on Rahul Gandhi's 'Narendra Surrender' comment?

Salman Khurshid: Rahul Gandhi is entirely correct, and I support his stance. As a member of the Congress, I follow his leadership. If others wish to interpret my loyalty or stance differently, they are entitled to do so. However, I am clear about my position.

IANS: The BJP asserts that Rahul Gandhi’s comment is being utilized by Pakistani media to fuel anti-India propaganda. They claim that even Pakistan has not employed such severe language. What is your viewpoint?

Salman Khurshid: Honestly, I am indifferent to what Pakistan states. I oppose everything they have done to promote terrorism. My primary concern is ensuring that India sends a robust and unequivocal message to Pakistan, preventing any recurrence of such actions. I do not watch Pakistani television; there are sufficient Indian news channels to keep me informed.