New Delhi
A Nation in Decline
The world is watching closely as the global community has become increasingly wary of India’s political maneuvers, international interference, and cross-border terrorism.
In recent years, India has strategically positioned its citizens in key roles across American politics, multinational corporations, and media outlets. This has allowed India to influence global policies, lobbying for its national interests while expanding its reach into trade, entrepreneurship, and technology. However, as the world takes a closer look at India’s actions, a darker picture emerges—one of widespread illegal immigration, political interference, and state-sponsored transgressions that have led to severe global backlash.
As scrutiny intensifies, countries around the world have begun deporting Indian nationals in large numbers. The United States, under President Donald Trump’s administration, recently deported hundreds of undocumented Indian immigrants using a military plane. This marked the first such flight outside the Americas, symbolizing a crackdown on illegal migration.
The deportation included 25 women and 12 minors, with a significant number originating from Gujarat, Haryana, and Punjab. Canada has also deported thousands of Indians, while Australia, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Middle Eastern countries have taken stringent measures against Indian migrants. Reports suggest that at least 27 nations have adopted policies limiting or outright rejecting Indian nationals due to concerns over criminal activities, illegal immigration, and fraud.
One of the most significant blows to India’s global reputation came from Canada. Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of orchestrating the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Sikh activist. Trudeau labeled it as “state-sponsored murder,” prompting Canada to expel a senior Indian diplomat. India retaliated, escalating tensions and leading to a diplomatic standstill.
India’s alleged involvement in political assassinations and espionage is not limited to Canada. The U.S. has raised concerns about Indian interference in American domestic affairs, including surveillance of critics of the Modi administration. Such actions have led to increasing distrust and a cooling of Indo-U.S. relations.
India’s history of meddling in neighboring nations has long been contentious. Reports suggest a consistent pattern of involvement in political assassinations, destabilization, and covert operations:
• Bangladesh – Speculated involvement in political assassinations.
• Sri Lanka – Alleged support for factions during the civil war, resulting in long-term instability.
• Nepal – Persistent interference in Nepalese politics.
• Pakistan – Accusations of cross-border terrorism and targeted killings.
Similar allegations have emerged from countries in the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia, highlighting India’s extensive extraterritorial influence.
India’s internal policies have contributed significantly to its international isolation. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the nation has witnessed rising extremism, state-sponsored marginalization of minorities, and human rights violations. Key concerns include:
• Persecution of Minorities – Systematic targeting of Muslims, Christians, and other religious minorities.
• Revocation of Kashmir’s Autonomy – The unconstitutional move to abrogate Article 370 and the subsequent crackdown on dissent.
• Controversial Citizenship Laws – The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC) have been widely condemned for discriminating against Muslims.
Such policies have damaged India’s democratic credentials, with several nations re-evaluating their diplomatic and economic ties with New Delhi.
A growing number of Indian nationals have been found using fake documents to enter developed countries. This has led to mass deportations from Canada, the U.S., Australia, Europe, and the Middle East. The repeated exposure of fraudulent migration cases has intensified global scrutiny, with many nations tightening visa regulations for Indian applicants.
The United States, under President Donald Trump’s administration, recently deported hundreds of undocumented Indian immigrants using a military plane.
Modi’s nationalist rhetoric and hardline governance have further alienated India from the international community. His administration’s policies, rooted in Hindutva ideology, have led to increased authoritarianism, suppression of dissent, and strained relations with global partners.
While India often accuses its neighbors, particularly Pakistan, of supporting terrorism, increasing evidence suggests that India itself engages in cross-border destabilization tactics. Reports highlight covert Indian operations in Pakistan and Nepal, further fueling tensions in the region.
For over seven decades, India has employed widespread atrocities, brutalities, and excessive military force in an attempt to suppress the people of Kashmir. Despite its relentless efforts, it has failed to alter their aspirations or break their spirit. The resilience of the Kashmiri people remains unshaken, and their demand for self-determination continues to persist.
It is imperative for Indian policymakers to adopt a rational and pragmatic approach, moving away from oppressive tactics that have only deepened resentment and prolonged the conflict. A just and lasting resolution can only be achieved through acknowledging the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. The sooner India realizes this and facilitates a peaceful resolution, the better it will be—not only for Kashmir but for regional stability and India’s own future.
India’s current trajectory poses significant risks to its global ambitions. If it continues facing diplomatic setbacks and international criticism, it may be further marginalized. Its aspirations for global leadership, including a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, could remain unrealized.
To reverse its declining reputation, India must acknowledge and address the concerns raised by the international community. Without genuine reforms, India risks further isolation, economic consequences, and a loss of its global standing.
The world is watching closely as nations become increasingly wary of India’s political maneuvers and international interference. Whether India chooses to mend its ways or continue its controversial trajectory remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the world is no longer willing to turn a blind eye to India’s villainous actions.
Based in Islamabad, the writer is the founding chair of GSRRA, a researcher at the Global South Economic and Trade Cooperation Research Center, and a non-resident fellow of CCG. He can be reached at awanzamir@yahoo.com
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