In a notable diplomatic development, the Taliban regime has appointed Ikramuddin Kamil as the acting consul in the Afghan mission in Mumbai, marking the Taliban’s first formal consular representation in India since it assumed power in Afghanistan more than three years ago. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi, while not making an official comment, has indicated that India will accept Kamil’s appointment. This move is part of Kabul’s broader effort to re-establish and strengthen diplomatic relations with India, aimed at facilitating the needs of the Afghan diaspora in India.

The announcement was made by the Taliban’s foreign ministry in Kabul, a step that reflects the regime's intention to improve diplomatic presence and cooperation with India. Ikramuddin Kamil, an Afghan scholar with significant ties to India, studied in the country for seven years, during which he completed his doctorate in international law at South Asia University on an MEA scholarship. Kamil, a familiar face within India’s academic and diplomatic circles, has also served in Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the deputy director in the department of security cooperation and border affairs.

Who is Ikramuddin Kamil?

Ikramuddin Kamil's background and education make him a fitting choice for this pivotal role. Having completed a PhD in international law from an Indian institution on an Indian government scholarship, Kamil represents a unique blend of Afghan and Indian academic experience. His extensive educational and professional background in international law and security cooperation aligns with the Afghan mission’s current needs in India. New Delhi views him as an Afghan national dedicated to representing Afghan interests in India, and he is expected to play a vital role in maintaining and enhancing diplomatic ties.

The Bakhtar News Agency, controlled by the Taliban, recently reported that Kamil is currently based in Mumbai, where he has already assumed his diplomatic duties, representing the Islamic Emirate. His responsibilities will focus on facilitating consular services for Afghan nationals in India, supporting a community that has grown substantially over the last few years. As many Afghan diplomats stationed in India over the past few years have sought asylum in Western countries, the need for consular services has only increased, highlighting the importance of Kamil’s appointment.

India's Stance and Diplomatic Position

Though there is no formal recognition of the Taliban regime by the Indian government, this development signifies a pragmatic approach from New Delhi. The Indian government has maintained a diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan, focusing on supporting humanitarian needs and fostering stability in the region. Just days before Kamil’s appointment, India’s MEA point-person for Afghanistan met with Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, the Taliban’s acting defense minister, in Kabul. These engagements reflect India’s cautious yet steady diplomatic relations with Afghanistan, as it cooperates on practical matters, especially those concerning Afghan citizens in India.

One senior source mentioned that India would continue to evaluate the recognition of the Taliban government within the context of the international community’s consensus. For New Delhi, the issue of official recognition remains under review, while operational cooperation at the consular level continues to address the immediate needs of Afghan nationals residing in India.

Afghan Community Needs in India

India hosts a sizable Afghan community, with individuals ranging from students and business professionals to those seeking asylum due to the country’s turbulent political situation. Kamil’s presence as acting consul aims to ensure that basic consular services are available to this population, which has been underserved following the exit of several Afghan diplomats. With Kamil in Mumbai, the Afghan mission now has a point of contact to address documentation, legal issues, and other consular services critical to Afghan nationals.

Indian government sources highlighted that despite changes in Afghanistan’s political landscape, there remains an ongoing commitment to supporting Afghan people. The Indian administration recognizes the humanitarian need for consular services and seeks to address this through incremental engagement with Kabul’s representatives in India.

Conclusion

As the diplomatic landscape evolves, Kamil’s appointment marks a symbolic re-engagement between Afghanistan and India, where he is expected to serve as a bridge for the Afghan community. For New Delhi, the focus remains on balancing humanitarian outreach with broader international positions on Taliban governance.

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