59 MPs from separate parties to lead India's global anti-terror outreach in 32 nations

The Indian government has deployed a high-level cross-party delegation of 59 Members of Parliament to 32 countries, including key global powers and regional allies. The primary aim of this extensive diplomatic mission is to project India’s united front against terrorism and highlight the national consensus on security and sovereignty issues.

This outreach follows Operation Sindoor, India’s recent domestic and international security strategy launched to combat terrorism in all its forms. The delegation comprises former ministers, current MPs across party lines, and seasoned diplomats, reflecting a carefully crafted message of unity, seriousness, and commitment.

The delegations have been split into seven groups, each visiting a distinct set of nations. Group-1, led by BJP’s Baijayant Panda, will visit Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Algeria. The team includes leaders like Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM) and Ghulam Nabi Azad, representing diverse political voices.

Group-2, under Ravi Shankar Prasad, is headed to UK, France, Germany, EU, Italy, and Denmark. It includes prominent faces like Priyanka Chaturvedi (Shiv Sena UBT) and Amar Singh (INC), emphasizing bipartisan representation in Europe.

Asia-Pacific diplomacy is covered by Group-3, led by Sanjay Kumar Jha (JDU), traveling to Indonesia, Malaysia, Korea, Japan, and Singapore. This group blends leaders from AITC, CPI(M), BJP, and Congress, with the inclusion of Salman Khurshid adding diplomatic weight.

Group-4, focusing on West Asia and Africa, is headed by Shrikant Shinde (Shiv Sena) and includes MPs like Bansuri Swaraj (BJP) and ET Mohammed Basheer (IUML). Group-5, traveling to the USA, Latin America, and Caribbean, is led by Shashi Tharoor (INC), a seasoned diplomat and MP.

Group-6, exploring Russia and parts of Eastern Europe, is under the leadership of Kanimozhi Karunanidhi (DMK). The delegation features leaders from SP, NC, BJP, and AAP. Meanwhile, Group-7, covering Africa and Middle East, includes senior leaders like Supriya Sule (NCP-SCP) and Anurag Thakur (BJP).