NSA Ajit Doval may miss the BRICS meeting in Brazil following the tragic Pahalgam attack, signaling India’s growing regional tensions.

Ajit Doval’s Attendance at BRICS Meet in Doubt After Pahalgam Tragedy

As tensions simmer along India’s borders, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval’s scheduled visit to Brazil for the upcoming BRICS meeting now hangs in the balance. The uncertainty follows the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, most of them tourists.

The incident, marked as the deadliest assault in the Valley since the historic revocation of Article 370 in 2019, has shaken India’s security apparatus to its core. With cross-border concerns escalating, Doval’s presence at the BRICS NSA summit on April 30 has become increasingly unlikely, according to senior government sources.

Pahalgam Attack: A Grim Reminder of Unfinished Business

The Pahalgam tragedy has reignited old tensions between India and Pakistan, with New Delhi pointing to evidence of cross-border orchestration. In response, national security priorities have been significantly realigned, forcing top officials, including Doval, to stay focused on domestic security measures rather than international engagements.

Security experts suggest that such attacks not only destabilize the region but also disrupt India’s diplomatic momentum on the global stage. “When domestic security is under strain, international representation becomes a secondary concern,” said Lt. Gen. (retd.) Deependra Singh Hooda, a former Northern Army Commander.

India’s Contingency Plan for BRICS: A Backup Representative

Though an official announcement regarding Doval’s attendance is still awaited, insiders reveal that preparations are underway for India’s BRICS Sherpa to represent the country if needed. Maintaining India’s voice at the multilateral table remains crucial, especially as the BRICS bloc—now expanded to 11 members—prepares to deliberate on significant global issues.

The foreign ministers and national security advisors are set to finalize key agendas for the July summit, where pressing topics such as artificial intelligence governance, climate finance, and cross-border digital payments will take center stage. Given India’s growing technological and environmental footprint, its participation holds weight.

BRICS Summit 2025: Critical Issues on the Table

Scheduled for July 6-7 in Rio de Janeiro, the BRICS summit is poised to make landmark announcements, including a multilateral framework on artificial intelligence ethics and a comprehensive plan for climate finance. These moves aim to counterbalance Western-led initiatives and cement BRICS as a robust global bloc.

Additionally, the foreign ministers’ meeting will address ongoing global crises—from the persistent conflict in Ukraine to the unfolding instability in West Asia—ensuring BRICS nations are aligned on major geopolitical narratives.

In a world increasingly polarized between East and West, India’s balanced diplomacy is more important than ever. Absence at key forums like BRICS could limit New Delhi’s ability to shape emerging global conversations.

Why Doval’s Presence Matters

Ajit Doval, often seen as the architect of India’s proactive national security strategies, has played a pivotal role in positioning India within the BRICS framework. His absence would certainly be felt, especially in discussions surrounding international counterterrorism frameworks—areas where India has consistently pushed for stronger, collective action.

Moreover, given that security cooperation among BRICS nations is still a developing agenda, India’s direct participation through its top security official would underline its commitment to a more integrated security posture among emerging economies.

The Broader Diplomatic Outlook

While the immediate aftermath of the Pahalgam attack demands attention, missing critical global platforms could come at a diplomatic cost. However, Indian officials seem determined to ensure continuity. Whether through Doval or another senior representative, India’s strategic interests at BRICS will be firmly upheld.

A senior foreign ministry official noted, “Security challenges at home always take precedence, but India remains committed to its multilateral engagements. Backup plans are a part of robust diplomacy.”

The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Doval boards the flight to Brazil or stays back to manage India’s heightened security imperatives.

Conclusion:

As India grapples with the shockwaves of the Pahalgam attack, its leadership faces a critical balancing act: securing the homeland while staying engaged on the world stage. Whether Ajit Doval attends the BRICS NSA meet or not, India’s commitment to shaping global conversations on security, technology, and climate remains steadfast. In a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, adaptability and resilience are the true hallmarks of effective diplomacy.

Disclaimer:
This article is based on available information as of April 27, 2025. Developments may change as official decisions are announced. The views and interpretations presented are for informational purposes only and do not reflect any official position of the government or associated entities.

source : India Blooms