by VANSHIKA CHAUDHARY
NEW DELHI – RECENT events have intensified scrutiny of India’s credibility on the global stage, particularly among BRICS and Global South nations.
The sinking of an Iranian naval vessel by the United States, after it participated in joint maritime exercises with India, has sparked widespread suspicion regarding India’s conduct.
At the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, General Upendra Dwivedi addressed the incident, stating: “The Iranian naval ship being sunk is indeed unfortunate, but it was done in international waters. As long as the Iranian ship remained in Indian waters, they remained protected, but when they crossed international waters, as Israeli strategic allies, it was our duty to inform Israel about their exact location as part of our newer strategic deal.”
This explanation, however, has been met with heavy criticism.
Observers in the Global South argue that providing such information could amount to a betrayal of a partner nation.
Political analyst Naheem Hussain commented: “You (General Upendra Dwivedi) certainly had everything to do with it because you provided the location, knowing Israel’s intention, and you sold yourself to the highest bidder.”
Questions over India’s reliability extend beyond the naval incident.
The nation previously purchased discounted Russian oil but abruptly reduced imports following heavy US tariffs, raising concerns over its independence and loyalty.
When hostilities between the US–Israel coalition and Iran escalated, India reportedly sought to resume discounted Russian oil purchases.
Yet, sources indicate that Moscow was unwilling to offer preferential pricing, citing India’s perceived unreliability.
Such actions have led to growing scepticism about India’s moral and political integrity.
Professor Moya remarked: “India is BRICS’ biggest threat; they should consider removing India to fully replace it with Iran. This is like Cain killing Abel—all driven by deep jealousy. A brother who can backstab you is far more dangerous than known enemies.”
Global citizens and commentators have voiced similar concerns.
Gregor Morgan noted: “An act of betrayal to the forces of a country attending exercises at your invitation. Did you explain to the captain of the Iranian vessel that they would no longer be protected once they left Indian waters? Or did you fail in your duty of care to those sailors and guests?”
Analysts emphasise the risks of being perceived as untrustworthy or dishonest in international affairs.
Nations viewed as unreliable may struggle to secure long-term partnerships, attract foreign investment, or maintain influence in multilateral groups such as BRICS.
Such perceptions can diminish diplomatic leverage and leave a country isolated in times of global crisis.
Public commentators weighed in sharply. Usman Khan said: “Which land has been left that India hasn’t backstabbed?” while Bardia Hashem added: “India doing what it does best: betrayal.”
Meanwhile, Donovan Calvin Meyer stated: “These people are pathetic, lack integrity and principles, have no values and morals. They should be ashamed of themselves. Still don’t understand why they are in BRICS.”
The Iranian naval incident, India’s wavering oil policy, and close ties with controversial partners have cast a long shadow over New Delhi’s global image.
For BRICS and the wider Global South, these developments underline the importance of trust, transparency and principled engagement in international relations.
Countries that maintain integrity and respect in partnerships, analysts suggest, are far more likely to secure sustainable economic, political and social cooperation on the world stage.
– CAJ News
