India Abstains from UN Vote on Afghanistan, Citing Need for Nuanced Approach
India abstained from a UN General Assembly resolution on Afghanistan, arguing that a "business as usual" approach focused solely on punitive measures is unlikely to succeed. India's envoy stated that any policy must blend incentives for positive behavior with disincentives for harmful actions. New Delhi reiterated its call for coordinated efforts to ensure groups like LeT and JeM cannot use Afghan territory for terrorism, while highlighting its own significant humanitarian aid and development projects in the country.
Unpacked:
India abstained because it believes a "business as usual" approach, focused only on punitive measures, is ineffective. Instead, India advocates for a balanced policy that combines incentives for positive actions with disincentives for negative behavior, emphasizing engagement and humanitarian support over isolation.
Since August 2021, India has supplied about 50,000 metric tons of wheat, over 330 metric tons of medicines and vaccines, and 40,000 liters of pesticide, along with scholarships for Afghan students and support for drug rehabilitation programs—helping millions of Afghans in need.
India is concerned because Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) are militant groups known for carrying out attacks against Indian interests. The potential for these groups to use Afghan territory as a base threatens regional security and India's national security.
India emphasizes a regional and multilateral approach, blending humanitarian aid and development with security concerns. Unlike some neighbors, India has avoided direct engagement with the Taliban government but maintained a cautious diplomatic presence and focused on people-centric support and regional cooperation.