'Delhi CM Does Not Speak For India': S Jaishankar Slams Kejriwal's "Irresponsible" 'Singapore Variant' Comment

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Wednesday (19 May) slammed Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for his decision to coin a term 'Singapore variant' with respect to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Dr Jaishankar has strongly stated that Kejriwal does not speak for India and irresponsible comments from those who should know better can damage long-standing partnerships.

Dr Jaishankar also said that India and Singapore are solid partners and thanked the latter for its role as a logistics hub and oxygen supplier.

Kejriwal had sensationally alleged that a new Covid-19 variant from Singapore is said to be very dangerous children and called for a suspension of air travel between the two countries.

This statement created a diplomatic incident, with Singapore expressing strong displeasure, while also releasing a categorical rebuttal of Kejriwal's allegations.

The Singapore government also called the Indian High Commissioner to convey strong objection to Kejriwal's tweet on "Singapore variant". The High Commissioner in response clarified that Delhi CM had no competence to pronounce on Covid variants or civil aviation policy.