Indian-American Diaspora's Curious Silence: Tharoor Questions US Policy Engagement

The esteemed Indian Member of Parliament, Shashi Tharoor, has cast a spotlight on a rather perplexing phenomenon: the 'relative silence' of the influential Indian-American diaspora concerning US policy towards India. Speaking at a compelling online discussion, Tharoor expressed his profound surprise, particularly given the ongoing global tensions surrounding the Ukraine conflict and India's steadfast commitment to its strategic autonomy.

'It is quite astonishing,' Tharoor remarked, 'how the Indian-American community, while increasingly vocal and influential in various domestic spheres, seems to shy away from robust engagement on matters of US foreign policy directly impacting their ancestral homeland.' He highlighted the evident discomfort within Washington regarding India's principled stance on the Ukraine crisis, a position rooted in long-standing geopolitical realities and national interests.

India, he reiterated, has maintained a crucial relationship with Russia, especially for its defense needs, a reality that often clashes with Western expectations.

Tharoor drew a stark comparison to other powerful diaspora groups within the US. He pointed out the well-documented and highly effective lobbying efforts of the Jewish-American and Irish-American communities, who have historically played a significant role in shaping US foreign policy to align with their respective homelands' interests.

'Where is the comparable voice from the Indian-American diaspora?' he implicitly questioned, suggesting a missed opportunity for advocacy and influence.

While acknowledging the Indian diaspora's impressive rise in American politics, business, and culture – with a growing number of elected officials, CEOs, and prominent figures – Tharoor underscored their perceived reticence on this specific, critical front.

He posited several reasons for this observed silence: perhaps a reluctance to be perceived as overtly lobbying for another country, or possibly internal divisions within the community itself that prevent a unified voice.

Tharoor firmly defended India's 'principled stand' on the Ukraine situation.

He elucidated that India's policy is not one of endorsement for the conflict but rather a pragmatic approach to safeguarding its own national security and economic interests, while simultaneously calling for peace and providing humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. India's history of non-alignment and its pursuit of an independent foreign policy dictate its actions, not subservience to any singular global power.

His observations serve as a crucial call to reflection.

In an increasingly complex global landscape, where diasporas often act as vital bridges and advocates, Tharoor's challenge to the Indian-American community is clear: to find its collective voice on US foreign policy issues concerning India. This engagement is not merely about influence; it's about ensuring a nuanced understanding of India's strategic imperatives in Washington and fostering a bilateral relationship that respects mutual sovereignty and diverse national interests.

The question remains: will the Indian-American diaspora rise to this challenge, transforming their 'relative silence' into a powerful, unified dialogue?