South Africa has clarified that its High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, has not been recalledfrom his diplomatic post following controversy over his presence at a religious event attended by former President Jacob Zuma and Indian-origin businessman Ajay Gupta.

Instead, the envoy has been asked to travel to Pretoria for consultations and clarifications with senior officials of the country's Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), according to South African diplomatic sources.

Consultations, Not Recall

The clarification follows reports suggesting that Sooklal had been recalled after his participation in the event sparked political attention in South Africa.

Diplomatic sources said Sooklal will meet DIRCO Director-General Zane Dangor to explain the circumstances surrounding his attendance at the religious gathering held in India.

Officials emphasized that the meeting is intended for consultations and that Sooklal continues to serve as South Africa's High Commissioner to India.

Minister's Earlier Remarks Triggered Confusion

The clarification came after South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola earlier stated that Sooklal had been called back to headquarters for further consultations following his association with Zuma and Gupta during the India visit.

Lamola also announced that the government is reviewing the diplomatic support framework applicable to former presidents and deputy presidents during overseas visits.

The proposed review aims to ensure that former leaders do not unintentionally create the impression of representing South Africa's official foreign policy without authorization.

New Rules Proposed for Former Leaders

Under the proposed framework, former presidents and deputy presidents seeking diplomatic assistance for international travel may be required to disclose details such as:

• Purpose of the visit.

• Travel programme and engagements.

• Funding sources.

• Principal hosts.

• Capacity in which they are travelling.

According to South African authorities, the proposed mechanism is intended to help assess diplomatic, political, reputational and security risks before official support is extended.

Religious Event Sparked Debate

The controversy stems from a visit to Haridwar in June, where former President Jacob Zuma attended a religious programme and met Indian-origin businessman Ajay Gupta.

During the visit, Zuma and Sooklal reportedly visited Siddhpeeth Shri Dakshin Kali Mandir and met Niranjani Akhara Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri.

The event drew attention because Ajay Gupta is one of the members of the Gupta family, which has remained at the centre of South Africa's long-running "state capture" investigations.

Background of Gupta Controversy

The Gupta family has faced allegations of using its close relationship with Jacob Zuma during his presidency to influence government appointments and secure state contracts.

Following the launch of judicial investigations into alleged corruption, the Gupta brothers left South Africa in 2018.

The controversy surrounding the Haridwar event has renewed debate in South Africa over the official role of diplomats accompanying former political leaders during private or religious engagements abroad.

Envoy Continues in Office

South African officials have reiterated that no decision has been taken to remove Anil Sooklal from his diplomatic assignment in India.

The consultations in Pretoria are expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the event, while the government continues reviewing broader diplomatic protocols for former heads of state.