India is now the most populous country in the world, the largest democracy, and one of the most religiously and linguistically diverse nations. Since its independence, India has played a crucial role in global affairs. However, for decades, American policymakers viewed India's leadership in the Non-Aligned Movement as a challenge rather than neutrality.

Strained Relations with Major Powers

India has long faced condescension from global powers. Even though British colonial rule ended, successive British leaders have continued to undermine India. Similarly, while the United States blames India's non-alignment policy for past tensions, it often overlooks its own betrayals, such as National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger's actions during the Cold War. Other global players have also acted against India's interests. In 1962, China took advantage of the Cuban Missile Crisis and seized Indian territory equivalent to the size of Switzerland. Instead of holding China accountable, the United Nations rewarded it by transferring the Republic of China’s Security Council seat to Beijing. More recently, Canada has displayed bias against India for speaking out against terrorism, showing a prejudiced approach.

The Need for Stronger Global Alliances

Mohan Kumar, a professor at the Jindal School of International Affairs and former ambassador to France, recently spoke at the Usanas Foundation’s Maharana Pratap Annual Geopolitics Dialogue in Jaipur. He emphasized the need for democracies like India, the United States, Israel, Germany, and moderate states such as the UAE to collaborate diplomatically. He argued that such alliances could bring real change, far beyond the capabilities of the United Nations in its current form.

India's UN Security Council Aspirations

India has sought a permanent seat on the UN Security Council for over 30 years. Major global players, including the US, UK, France, Russia, and several other nations like Australia, Brazil, Japan, and Germany, have voiced support for India’s inclusion. However, despite these endorsements, meaningful progress remains elusive. The UN often makes promises of reform, but they lack substance and fail to translate into real action. Instead of relying on empty commitments, India should reconsider its approach. It must recognize its growing influence and stop validating the insincere assurances of countries that resist its rise. Simultaneously, India should acknowledge the vital role it plays in the United Nations.

UN Bias and the Case for Institutional Reform

India is not the only country facing bias within the UN. The organization has a well-documented history of hostility toward Israel, which has worsened under the leadership of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. His stance often borders on open discrimination. As flaws within the UN become more evident, India has the opportunity to lead the way in establishing a new global institution. This alternative framework could be better suited to the 21st century and move away from colonial-era structures. By playing a key role in shaping a modern global governance system, India could ensure that rogue states like Pakistan and Turkey do not exploit international organizations. While the UN has contributed positively in many areas, a reformed institution could preserve its core functions while eliminating inefficiencies.

The Path Forward

Challenging the status quo carries risks, but the alternative is waiting another 30 years for the UN to take India’s Security Council aspirations seriously. As a major global power, India should not tolerate continuous delays and diplomatic setbacks. Despite these challenges, India has remained committed to the UN. It was an original member even before gaining independence and has served as a non-permanent Security Council member eight times—equal to Pakistan and behind only Japan and Brazil. However, with its growing influence, India must decide whether to continue pursuing inclusion in an outdated system or take bold steps toward creating a new, more effective global order.