‘Actions Have Consequence’: Jaishankar Announces End Of India’s ‘Uninterrupted Dialogue With Pakistan’ – News18

In a strong message to Pakistan, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday declared the end of an “era of uninterrupted dialogue” with the neighbouring country, asserting that “actions have consequences.”

Speaking at a book launch event in the national capital, Jaishankar stressed that the relationship between India and Pakistan will be shaped by how events unfold, in an apparent reference to cross-border terrorism.

‘Article 370 is done’

“The era of uninterrupted dialogue with Pakistan is over,” Jaishankar said. He referenced the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, saying, “So far as J&K (Jammu and Kashmir) is concerned, Article 370 is done.”

Jaishankar also underlined that the focus now is on determining the nature of future relations with Pakistan. He assured that India will not remain passive in the face of any developments, whether positive or negative.

“What I do want to say is that we are not passive, and whether events take a positive or a negative direction, either way, we will react,” he added. The minister’s remarks signal a significant shift in India’s diplomatic approach towards Pakistan amid the tense relationship between the two nations.

India’s Neighbourhood

During the event, Jaishankar also responded to criticisms of the country’s regional influence, noting that neighbouring countries often seek India’s involvement only when it suits their political needs.

At a separate event, another NDA minister from the Narendra Modi cabinet criticized Pakistan and questioned the feasibility of engaging in dialogue, saying that the country aims to destroy India.

Speaking to reporters, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy responded to calls from the National Conference (NC) and Congress for talks with Pakistan, stating that India had previously attempted dialogue under leaders such as former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and current PM Modi.

Reddy argued that despite these efforts, Pakistan has shown no genuine interest in fostering friendship with India. He accused Pakistan of perpetuating terrorism and targeting Indian soldiers, saying, “How can we speak to them when they are intent on increasing terrorism and destroying India?”