In a significant diplomatic interaction held in Jakarta, Salman Khurshid, veteran Congress leader and former Minister of External Affairs, addressed a distinguished gathering of Indonesian think tanks and academic circles, making powerful remarks about India’s internal stability and external diplomacy, particularly with reference to Kashmir and Pakistan. As part of an all-party Indian delegation, Khurshid reaffirmed that the abrogation of Article 370 was a landmark moment in the region's history, resolving what he termed as Kashmir’s major long-standing issue.

Article 370, inserted into the Indian Constitution in October 1949 and enacted in 1950, granted special autonomy to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It allowed the state to independently legislate on matters except for finance, foreign affairs, defence, and communications. Over the decades, this provision was often seen as divisive and hindering full integration of the region with the rest of India. Critics believed it created a false perception of separateness, fueling political unrest and external interference, particularly from Pakistan.

Khurshid noted, "Kashmir had a major problem for a long time... that was reflected in the thinking of the government in an article called 370... But Article 370 was abrogated and it was finally put to an end." He further pointed to the democratic progress made since then, referencing the 65% voter turnout in the recent elections in Jammu and Kashmir and affirming that “an elected government exists in Kashmir today.”

The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 by the Government of India was followed by the bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories—Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. This move brought the entire region under the full jurisdiction of the Indian Constitution, ending the special privileges earlier enjoyed by the erstwhile state. It also meant that national laws were now applicable in full, and central schemes could directly benefit the residents of the region.

While speaking in Jakarta, Khurshid also reiterated India’s long-held stance on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Quoting the unanimous resolution of the Indian Parliament, he stressed that PoK must be returned to India, and that seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly remain reserved for the same, serving as a symbol of India’s unyielding commitment to reclaim its territory.

Importantly, Khurshid addressed the stalled dialogue between India and Pakistan, stating clearly that “dialogue can only resume when Pakistan demonstrates genuine intent for peace by ceasing support for terrorism.” He emphasized that the Indus Waters Treaty, too, remains suspended, aligning with India's recent declarations that “water and blood cannot flow together.”

Expressing India’s disappointment over Pakistan’s repeated betrayals during peace initiatives, Khurshid noted that India has now shifted to a more assertive posture, including the adoption of kinetic measures against terror hubs in Pakistan and PoK. The recent Operation Sindoor, a precise military response to terror attacks including the April 22 Pahalgam incident, showcases India’s evolving doctrine where retaliation is swift, strategic, and proportionate.

During the outreach tour, the Indian delegation, led by JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha and consisting of members from across political parties—BJP, Congress, TMC, CPI(M), among others—has already visited Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, and continues to expand its diplomatic engagement. The mission is part of India’s comprehensive campaign to counter Pakistan’s global misinformation drive and bolster support for its anti-terrorism efforts.

Khurshid acknowledged Indonesia’s unexpected and robust support, calling it both symbolic and substantial. According to him, the Indonesian leadership—including government figures, political parties, and ASEAN representatives—firmly rejected Pakistan’s misleading narratives and offered their condolences and solidarity with India in the aftermath of recent terror strikes.

The support from countries like Indonesia not only underscores India’s growing global stature but also reflects shifting geopolitical attitudes where nations are increasingly unwilling to tolerate or accommodate terrorism as a state policy.

Khurshid’s statements, combined with the broader strategy of multi-party outreach, reflect a new chapter in Indian diplomacy—where internal unity, clarity in foreign policy, and democratic legitimacy form the bedrock of international engagements.

In conclusion, the remarks made by Salman Khurshid highlight the fundamental shift in India’s Kashmir policy post-Article 370. The issue, once a major bone of contention both domestically and diplomatically, is now being projected as resolved and part of a unified India. At the same time, India’s renewed stance on Pakistan and terrorism, coupled with a firm demand for the return of PoK, signals a decisive and confident approach rooted in democratic progress, legal clarity, and national interest.

The ongoing all-party tour not only demonstrates rare political consensus but also aims to redefine India’s global narrative—one where security, sovereignty, and stability take center stage in regional diplomacy. As the world increasingly responds to India’s firm and coherent messaging, the era of ambiguity over Kashmir’s status seems to be drawing to a close.

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