BJP’s N-doctrine demand rejected
The government on Wednesday rejected the BJP’s demand for re-visiting India’s “nuclear doctrine”. Minister for external affairs S.M. Krishna informed the Lok Sabha that India will continue with its “no first use” and “minimum credible deterrent policy” in view of the possible threats and challenges.
During his hour-long reply to a debate on the demand for grants of his ministry in the Lok Sabha, Mr Krishna said, the government has been taking initiatives to improve ties with immediate neighbours, including Pakistan and China, as also with countries like the United States and Russia.
While delving upon various facets of India’s foreign policy, the minister also rejected the notion that the country was getting isolated in the global arena, which was made out by select members of the Opposition benches. He said, it will not be true to say that India is a “by-stander” in the world affairs. The demands were later passed by a voice vote.
The minister spent quite a lot of time praising Jaswant Singh during his long speech, who initiated the debate on Tuesday. Responding point by point the issues raised by Mr Singh, Mr Krishna said, the government remains committed in taking steps to strengthen India’s defence and to maintain credible minimum nuclear deterrence. “On nuclear doctrine, I would like to say that there is no change in our policy. We are committed to universal, non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament and we remain firm on the commitment,” he said.
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