In response to the ongoing controversy surrounding the G20 dinner invite, External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar invoked the phrase “India, that is Bharat” and encouraged critics to familiarize themselves with the Indian Constitution. While the Opposition parties have criticized the invitation, labeling it as a theatrical move, leaders from the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) have expressed their support for the decision.
During an interview with ANI, Dr. Jaishankar elaborated on the significance of addressing the nation as ‘Bharat,’ emphasizing its deeper meaning and the connotations it holds, which are also reflected in the Indian Constitution. Responding to a question about whether the government intends to reposition the country as ‘Bharat’ during the G20 summit, he stated, “When you mention ‘Bharat,’ it carries a particular significance, meaning, and understanding, which is also mirrored in our constitution.”
Dr. Jaishankar urged those who took issue with the G20 dinner invite to read the Constitution of India, asserting, “The phrase ‘India that is Bharat’ is enshrined in the Constitution. I would invite everyone to study it.”
While the Opposition parties have strongly criticized the invite, characterizing it as a mere spectacle, the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders have lent their support. According to PTI, the choice to use the name ‘Bharat’ in various documents related to the G20 summit was a deliberate one.
