Amid widespread criticism over a recent male-only press conference held by a Taliban minister, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a firm clarification: it had no involvement, direct or indirect, in organizing or endorsing the event. The MEA further condemned media reports that suggested otherwise, calling them “inaccurate, misleading, and irresponsible.”

In its official statement, the Ministry expressed concern that certain news outlets had falsely attributed the press conference to Indian support or cooperation, thereby misrepresenting India’s diplomatic posture toward Afghanistan. The MEA reiterated that it maintains an approach of strategic autonomy and non-interference, especially in internal Taliban protocols and operational arrangements.

The controversy erupted after media coverage of the press briefing highlighted that only male journalists were allowed to attend, with female reporters excluded. The event drew sharp rebuke from civil society and international observers, who saw it as an example of gender exclusion under Taliban governance. Some reports even suggested that India was complicit or had facilitated the arrangement—claims that the MEA strongly refuted.

Officials clarified that India does not control or interfere with the internal mechanisms of Taliban governance. The MEA emphasized that its diplomatic engagements are conducted on an issue-to-issue basis, focusing on humanitarian assistance, evacuation, and regional stability, rather than acquiescing to or endorsing domestic policies of the Afghan regime.

India’s diplomatic posture toward Afghanistan has long been guided by caution: engaging in humanitarian cooperation while steering clear of legitimizing actions that run counter to international norms on rights, equality, and gender inclusion. The MEA’s statement reaffirms that stance at a moment when perceptions and signals are under intense scrutiny.

The Taliban’s male-only press conference has now become a symbolic flashpoint. Critics argue it underscores the regime’s continuing marginalization of women in public life. India’s distancing may also reflect a concern over the optics of being seen as aligned with exclusionary protocols.

Looking ahead, the MEA has urged media organizations to verify sources and context before assigning Indian involvement to such events. It also called for nuanced reporting on India–Afghanistan diplomacy—one that reflects India’s carefully calibrated engagement rather than speculative ascriptions.