The United States has honoured Indian-origin official with the National Security Council’s Distinguished Action Award, crediting him for his role in what Washington describes as diplomatic efforts linked to the India–Pakistan ceasefire earlier this year. The award was presented by US Secretary of State during a ceremony under the administration of . According to US officials, Gill was recognised for internal coordination and diplomatic outreach during the period surrounding the May 2025 ceasefire, a claim that immediately clashes with India’s long-standing position on the matter.

New Delhi has flatly rejected the US narrative, reiterating that there was no third-party involvement—American or otherwise—in the ceasefire understanding with Pakistan. External Affairs Minister and other senior officials have repeatedly stated that the cessation of hostilities was achieved strictly through bilateral military channels. The Indian government has informed Parliament that the May 10 ceasefire followed direct communication between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan, initiated by Islamabad. Prime Minister has made it unequivocally clear to President Trump that India neither accepts nor will ever accept mediation on issues involving Pakistan.

Gill, who currently oversees the India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the broader South and Central Asia portfolio at the NSC, has previously served in senior roles during Trump’s first term and at the US State Department. While Washington’s decision to honour him signals how the US establishment views its behind-the-scenes diplomatic engagement, India’s response underscores a firm strategic position: New Delhi is unwilling to concede even symbolic space to external mediation on Pakistan-related matters. The contrast between the US award citation and India’s categorical denial highlights a clear clash of narratives—one that India shows no sign of diluting for diplomatic convenience.