India, Oct. 23 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to attend the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur from October 26 to 28. According to reports, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to represent the country at the meeting. While there has been no official confirmation from the Indian government, sources suggest the decision is due to scheduling constraints and pressing domestic engagements.

PM Modi has traditionally led India's participation in ASEAN and East Asia Summit meetings, reflecting India's commitment to its "Act East" policy and the importance it places on ASEAN centrality in the Indo-Pacific region. His likely absence this year marks a shift from previous summits, though officials emphasize that India...