Setback at Quad

In the ever-evolving theater of South Asian geopolitics, it is becoming increasingly difficult for India to uphold the image of a nation wronged by terror when the international community is evidently unconvinced by its narrative. The recent Quad joint statement in response to the tragic Pahalgam terror attack serves as a clear and damning example. While it condemned the attack in principle, its diplomatic wording — notably avoiding any mention of Pakistan and referring vaguely to "relevant authorities" — is a quiet but significant snub to New Delhi. This omission is not accidental. Experts have pointed out that the statement's choice of words aligns more closely with Pakistan’s longstanding demand for an impartial international investigation, rather than a unilateral endorsement of India’s claims. The diplomatic silence surrounding India’s allegations points to a larger truth: New Delhi's narrative is failing to resonate globally.

For years, India has painted itself as a victim of cross-border terrorism, often placing the blame squarely on Pakistan. But the tide appears to be turning. India’s inability to get even symbolic support from key partners within the Quad -- a platform often touted as a bulwark against Chinese influence -- is a glaring diplomatic setback. It also punctures the myth, perpetuated by sections of the Indian media, that only China’s support for Pakistan undermines India’s case in global forums. With neither China nor Pakistan present in the Quad, the absence of their supposed influence lays bare the stark reality that India's claims lack credibility, even among allies. Pakistan, once seen as diplomatically cornered, has steadily reclaimed its space on the world stage. Its exit from the FATF grey list after sustained reforms and active cooperation was a diplomatic victory. Islamabad has also effectively spotlighted India’s covert support for violent non-state actors, including the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), as well as its alleged involvement in transnational assassinations.

India’s foreign policy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi appears increasingly directionless. The failure to sign the SCO Defence Ministers' joint communique and the tepid response from global partners during and after the Indo-Pak conflict further point to a pattern of diplomatic miscalculations. Despite its economic allure, India’s credibility is increasingly being questioned, and no amount of economic heft can substitute for principled and consistent foreign policy. There was a time when India was considered a strategic bulwark against Chinese expansion. Today, doubts are growing over its capacity and intent to fulfill that role. Military setbacks, ill-conceived diplomatic stances and an overreliance on narrative warfare rather than substantive policy have all eroded international confidence. The erosion is so significant that even domestic opposition leaders are now questioning the efficacy of India’s foreign policy under the Modi government. Instead of clinging to worn-out allegations and hoping for unquestioning support, India must reassess its approach. If it truly wishes to combat terrorism and contribute to regional stability, the path forward is not through proxy conflicts or global blame games, but through sincere engagement and meaningful dialogue with Pakistan. The diplomatic landscape has shifted.