India’s standing on the global stage appears to be at a critical juncture, marked by a palpable sense of deepening international isolation. This isn’t merely a matter of shifting diplomatic tides; it’s a complex interplay of internal politics, media narratives, and a perceived erosion of the nation’s long-held secular and democratic values. Disturbingly, this situation is exacerbated by elements within the ruling BJP’s media ecosystem, which are increasingly resorting to sensationalized conspiracy theories, even going so far as to implicate close Western allies like the United States.
The Conspiracy Machine: Dragging the US into Baseless Allegations
A prime example of this unsettling trend comes from Arnab Goswami, a prominent figure in BJP-aligned media. He recently leveled extraordinary allegations against Donald Trump and his family, linking them to “World Liberty Financial,” a cryptocurrency company. Goswami’s narrative claims this company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the “Pakistan Crypto Council” just four days before the tragic Pahalgam incident. The implication, though unstated directly, is clear: a shadowy nexus at play.
Beyond this, Goswami audaciously accused U.S. media of deliberately remaining silent on the matter because it “supports radical Islam.” This is not just a serious allegation; it is a baseless and inflammatory claim designed to achieve a specific domestic objective. Such rhetoric aims to stir public sentiment, create an “us vs. them” narrative, and crucially, deflect attention from India’s own internal challenges and policy shortcomings. In a world grappling with complex geopolitical realities, resorting to such unsubstantiated accusations against U.S. demonstrates a profound strategic miscalculation and a concerning disregard for diplomatic norms. As India faces increasing global scrutiny, its media allies’ aggressive attacks on the West, particularly the U.S., appear to be a desperate attempt to find external scapegoats for internal failures.
A Pattern of Dramatic Storytelling and Strategic Discomfort
While Indian media has a history of leaning into dramatic storytelling, the current situation is unique in its brazenness. The open and direct implication of a close Western ally in a web of suspicion marks a significant departure from previous norms. This kind of narrative doesn’t emerge in a vacuum; it’s a symptom of deeper, underlying strategic discomfort. When long-standing alliances no longer feel as dependable, or when a nation perceives its influence waning, there’s a temptation to construct narratives that explain away these shifts, often by externalizing blame.
The world, however, is witnessing a different reality. The diplomatic landscape reveals a series of instances that underscore India’s growing isolation. For example, Canada extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi with palpable reluctance, seemingly only after weeks of pressure and to avoid further bloc friction, suggesting a relationship strained by underlying tensions. Similarly, despite strong defense ties, France, Germany, and the European Union collectively refused to unequivocally support India on the Pahalgam incident; this absence of solidarity from key partners is a telling sign. Furthermore, two crucial Middle Eastern allies, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are actively strengthening their ties with Pakistan. This shift in regional alignments further highlights India’s diminishing influence in certain traditional spheres. These are not isolated incidents but rather diplomatic realities that paint a clear picture of India’s evolving international standing.
The BRICS Question and the Erosion of Soft Power
Adding to India’s diplomatic woes are recent reports suggesting the possibility of its expulsion from BRICS. This would represent a stunning and unprecedented reversal for a country that has historically championed its role as a leader in the Global South. If such a development were to occur, it would undoubtedly prompt further questions about India’s foreign policy trajectory and its ability to maintain its influence in multilateral forums. The obvious question then arises: will the BJP, once again, choose to blame America? Or perhaps, will Russia and China be next in line for accusations? This pattern of externalizing blame risks alienating even historical partners.
Under the current Modi government, there is a growing international perception that India is no longer the secular, democratic state it once was, and this erosion of India’s soft power is deeply concerning. The narrative increasingly gaining global traction paints a picture of a nation where minorities face lynching, with frequently reported instances of violence against these communities raising serious human rights concerns. Religious sites, particularly mosques, have also been targets of attacks, further fueling anxieties about religious freedom. Furthermore, there is a perception of a shrinking space for independent media, with many outlets seemingly echoing government narratives rather than providing critical scrutiny. Finally, foreign policy decisions and diplomatic engagements are increasingly viewed through the lens of their utility for domestic political consumption rather than genuine international cooperation. These perceptions are not isolated incidents but rather contribute to a broader narrative that challenges India’s image as a vibrant, inclusive democracy.
A Media War India Cannot Win
The BJP, through its allied media, appears to be instigating a media war that it cannot ultimately win. While attacking the U.S., Canada, BRICS, and even the Muslim world might generate sensational headlines and appeal to a domestic constituency, it comes at a significant cost: the erosion of India’s global trust. International relations are built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and shared values. When a nation consistently resorts to baseless accusations and inflammatory rhetoric, it inevitably damages its credibility and alienates potential allies.
Instead of focusing on external blame, the critical questions that Indian media should be asking, and indeed, that the Indian government should be introspecting upon, are: Why did Pakistan garner global sympathy after recent events, as understanding the international narrative around Pakistan’s position is crucial for India’s foreign policy? Furthermore, why was Israel the only vocal supporter of India in recent crises, which raises significant questions about the breadth and depth of India’s alliances? Lastly, is that support solely tied to weapons deals, as if so, it suggests a transactional rather than values-based approach to international relations, which can be inherently unstable?
The Imperative of Accountability
The final and most crucial thought is this: will India continue to blame the world for its growing isolation? Or will it finally summon the courage to hold the Modi government and its Hindutva politics accountable for the current state of affairs? The trajectory India is on, fueled by divisive internal policies and a combative external narrative, threatens to push it further into a corner. A true path to regaining global trust and influence lies not in denial and blame, but in introspection, a renewed commitment to democratic principles, and a foreign policy rooted in constructive engagement and mutual respect. The choice lies with India’s leadership: to continue down a path of increasing isolation, or to undertake the difficult but necessary process of self-correction and re-engagement with the global community on a foundation of integrity and shared values.
SAT Commentaries, a collection of insightful social media threads on current events and social issues, featuring diverse perspectives from various authors.
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