Conversations that Shaped Diplomacy: Sushma Swaraj’s Epic Tweets as India's External Affairs Minister
When talking about dedicated and intrepid politicians, Sushma Swaraj's profile and achievements shine brightly. As a political leader, she exemplified genuine humanity and a deep commitment to the welfare of those in need. Unlike many, her dedication to helping others continued to grow with her role as a minister, with no compromise on values.
Humanity Over Power
Despite the common belief that as ministers, or in power positions, people's human approach softens, Sushma Swaraj's case stands out. She focused on supporting the needy without discrimination, placing humanity first and national interests next. Under her tenure as the Minister for External Affairs (MEA), the department became one of the fastest responding units within the government.
Even today, her Twitter account serves as a tribute to her memory, still boasting 13 million followers. The account remains a testament to the impact she had on people's lives, even after her passing.
Empowering the Youth
One of the most poignant moments during her tenure was her interaction with a 16-year-old girl from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The young girl was facing challenges due to the strict laws and protocols in place in the UAE. Recognizing her distress, Sushma Swaraj responded with "Bachhe" (boy). This simple word was enough to instill confidence in the young woman and show that someone was indeed standing by her side.
Another notable incident involved a tweet from a young man from Jammu and Kashmir (JK), who mistakenly referred to his homeland as 'Indian Occupied Kashmir.' Sushma Swaraj not only corrected this misconception but also explained the concept of national integration with subtlety. This incident highlights her approachability and dedication to education and awareness.
Handling Criticism with Dignity
Often, politicians are criticized for responding to every tweet, even those that are irrelevant or offensive. However, when it comes to the External Affairs Minister of India, such responses are not only appropriate but also reflective of her confidence and dedication.
In one notable instance, she was asked to suggest individuals who could handle the Twitter accounts of various political parties. Her response, "you are just an attention seeker," was a testament to her integrity and focus on substantive issues rather than personal recognition.
She also addressed a tweet from Samit Padhy, showing her willingness to help and providing support to non-Indian citizens in their visa processes. These actions showcase her true value in the digital age, where social media can be a tool for genuine service and support.
Lessons in Patience and Humor
While the majority of her tweets were focused on meaningful interactions and support, she also dealt with the occasional trolls and attention-seekers. However, her responses to these were always measured and positive, demonstrating patience and a sense of humor.
One of the most praised aspects of her Twitter account was the way she handled controversial or sensitive tweets. Her calm and composed replies ensured that she remained a role model for others in politics, activism, and beyond.
Conclusion: Sushma Swaraj’s tenure as India's External Affairs Minister was marked by numerous instances where social media served as a platform for diplomacy, education, and support. Her every tweet reflects her commitment to her principles and her dedication to her constituents.
About the Author
Sunil Kumar Mohanty is a management professional with expertise in marketing and communications. He currently works as a content writer and is passionate about sharing stories that inspire and inform.