In a display of assertive diplomacy, the Indian government has fired back at the United States and Germany over their recent comments regarding India's internal affairs. The response from New Delhi reflects a new brand of diplomacy embraced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and supported by his nationalist backers, as India emerges as a global power.

Following the arrest of opposition leader Arvind Kejriwal on corruption charges just weeks before a national election, US and German officials issued statements emphasizing the importance of the rule of law. However, the Indian Foreign Ministry reacted strongly, summoning German and US diplomats for a reprimand in New Delhi. It criticized the comments made by Washington, calling them "completely unacceptable" and accused the United States of casting aspersions on India's internal matters.

Last Thursday, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar addressed the American Bar Association at a conference in New Delhi, expressing discontent with what he perceived as moralizing and overbearing behavior from the United States. Dhankhar dismissed recent US officials' comments on India's new citizenship law as "ignorant," stating that India has a rich civilizational history of over 5,000 years and does not require external guidance.

While these verbal clashes between India and Western nations are not expected to significantly disrupt bilateral relations, they highlight the significant differences between the two countries. These differences range from India's relationship with Russia, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party's treatment of religious minorities, to its crackdown on political opponents.

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, known for his outspoken responses to Western critics, defended India's friendship with Russia and accused the West of selectively applying principles, particularly in relation to Ukraine. Furthermore, Indian officials have criticized the West for harboring Sikh terrorists and alleged that the Indian government was involved in targeted killings of Sikhs abroad. This led to a heated exchange between India and Canada, resulting in the expulsion of 41 Canadian diplomats.

Western diplomats in New Delhi have found it challenging to navigate their communication with the Indian government due to its propensity to respond adversely even to mild public criticism. US Ambassador Eric Garcetti and other American officials faced condemnation in India after speaking publicly about the equal treatment of different religious communities under law in relation to a new Indian citizenship law that fast-tracks citizenship for non-Muslims fleeing persecution from Muslim-majority neighbors. Some US allies chose to express their concerns privately.

Experts suggest that the strong diplomatic rhetoric fits Modi's domestic image as a respected leader who commands the attention and respect of world powers, while simultaneously instilling fear in India's adversaries. The Indian government's tough approach has resonated with grass-roots supporters, who have celebrated India's newfound assertiveness on social media platforms.

As India continues to grow as a global power, its evolving diplomatic stance under Prime Minister Modi signals a shift towards a more self-assured and confident government. While there may be occasional clashes with foreign nations, analysts believe that the fundamental trajectory of deepening bilateral relations will remain intact.

Though this diplomatic sparring may be characterized as "theater" in the midst of both US and Indian election campaigns, it reflects India's desire to assert its sovereignty and demand equal treatment on the world stage. With an increasing focus on domestic achievements and a growing sense of national pride, the Indian government is determined to shape its own destiny and be recognized as an important global player.