Soon after Independence, India adopted a policy of non-alignment. Yet this neutrality did not prevent the Chinese invasion of 1962 or repeated conflicts with Pakistan.
Even today, India prides itself on being “neutral,” while every foreign policy setback is spun as a victory by a media ecosystem dominated by Modi and his men — whether it is Trump’s tariffs, Bangladesh cozying up to Pakistan, or other developments.
Now, Saudi Arabia has signed a defense pact with Pakistan, under which both countries pledge to support each other in the event of an attack. An attack on one will be treated as an attack on both. With Pakistan being a nuclear power, Saudi Arabia stands to benefit, while Pakistan gains access to Saudi dollars.
Security analysts warn that this pact could strengthen Pakistan’s hand, with Saudi Arabia potentially joining in retaliation under the doctrine of mutual defense. Yet, from India’s perspective, this is not a major threat — it is simply the price of remaining neutral.
Most Muslim nations in the Middle East view Israel as an adversary, but proximity to the United States offers no protection.
Qatar, for instance, went as far as gifting Donald Trump a private jet during his visit, only to be bombed by Israel later. Clearly, even American friendship does not guarantee safety.
Saudi Arabia, however, needed the assurance of a nuclear ally it could trust. While it has enjoyed cordial ties with both India and Pakistan, it is Pakistan that has long provided military training and even personal bodyguards for the Saudi royal family.
If Riyadh had approached New Delhi with a request for a defense pact of this nature, would India have agreed? Certainly not. Which is why Saudi Arabia was more than happy to accept Pakistan’s offer.
Consider the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Prime Minister Modi visited both nations and offered India’s assistance in ending the conflict. But how exactly does he expect India’s mediation to bring peace?
Ukraine watches India purchase Russian oil, while Russia sees Modi express solidarity with Kyiv. The end result is that both sides perceive India as apathetic and unwilling to take a firm stand.
True leadership does not come from sitting on the fence; it comes from taking a stance, even if it means making enemies in defense of one’s principles.
Neutrality is not the hallmark of dharma. Standing for dharma — regardless of the might of the adversary — is what makes a nation a true global power.
Until then, more such pacts will be signed by other countries, with India left watching from the sidelines, increasingly irrelevant to their strategic choices.
