Editorial Snapshot: 09-June-2025

​Influencing interlocutors: On Operation Sindoor, India’s delegations

Seven Indian delegations, mainly comprising Members of Parliament and former diplomats, were sent by the government under Operation Sindoor to 32 countries to convey India’s stance on the Pahalgam terror attack, its links to Pakistan, and the measured nature of India’s military response. The goal was to influence global opinion—governments, lawmakers, media, and public—especially in nations where India feels support has been lacking. Key diplomatic challenges include Pakistan’s roles in the UN Security Council, Taliban Sanctions Committee, and UN Counter-terrorism Committee, which complicate India’s attempts to hold terrorist entities accountable.Delegations also addressed concerns from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and focused particularly on U.S. relations, amid perceptions of strained ties due to former President Trump’s mediation claims. While the effectiveness of these missions is uncertain—given criticism that the delegations prioritized the Indian diaspora and media over foreign engagement—India aimed to project unity, pluralism, and resolve against terrorism, countering narratives of democratic backsliding and majoritarianism.

Lawful measures: On Manipur and law and order 

Ethnic conflicts are uniquely difficult to resolve due to deep-rooted grievances and mutual hostility among communities, often inflamed by chauvinist elements promoting fear and vengeance. In Manipur, this dynamic has been evident with the rise of extremist groups like Arambai Tenggol, which used violence and coercion to advance their militant agenda while enjoying impunity under the previous BJP-led State government. The delayed action against such groups allowed them to become a serious threat to peace.Under President’s Rule, the Union government has finally acted, arresting extremist leaders and attempting to restore order, though protests in the Imphal valley reflect the challenges of enforcing the law in such a charged environment. The government must present strong legal cases, resist communal pressure, and win public trust across ethnic lines. Simultaneously, it must engage in inclusive dialogue and peace-building efforts, involving all-party and civil society participation, while firmly resisting any pressure to reverse lawful actions taken against violent offenders.