Mr Arif Nizami in his recent article “Hostility across the border” has prudently highlighted all the issues confronting the country internally and externally, including the conclusion of Qadri’s well prepared drama of long march that ended in a victory of democracy when the government did not compromise on constitutional matters but agreed to hold elections under article 62, 63 and 218 of the constitution of Pakistan that shall seal the fate of majority of sitting politicians both from treasury and opposition benches. It has been welcomed by the CEC of Pakistan who is now determined to ensure implementation of these clauses.
As for as the skirmishes on the LoC, threats and counter allegations by India are concerned, these definitely need careful consideration and should not be taken lightly. The writer has rightly concluded by giving specific example of how the situation has changed abruptly with Manmohan Singh’s declaration that states that it is “no longer business as usual with Pakistan”. How can India be granted MFN status when our main issue Kashmir is sidetracked along with almost settled issues of Siachin and Sir Creek?
Recent developments have rebounded badly and Pakistan now stands where it was at the start. What a tragedy for both the nations that in spite of great flexibility shown by Pakistan, especially during Gen Musharraf’s era when he surrendered most of the demands under the aegis of CBMs CD (Composite Dialogue), and present government’s Aman Ki Asha campaign, the progress has been smashed by India by going back on settled issues. Musharraf gave concessions to create history and in principle it was a principal error. I totally agree with the writer that any arrangement without the backing of people of Kashmir shall prove fruitless. But, nevertheless Pakistan should take seriously the threats of Manmohan Singh and forget about bilateral hoax of talks without deriving any benefits.
Pakistan stands at a much weaker wicket due to internal disorder and activities of TTP that has ultimately forced Pakistan to free Taliban leaders who were responsible for the massacre of innocent people and our brave soldiers. In fact, there is weight when writer says that bilateral relations may prove to be a distant dream because both sides in future are going to have fresh mandate. Our strength lies in unity and solidarity that appears to be a distant dream under present set of rulers, but nation should remain awake to what is coming from across the border.
India-Pakistan tensions have a grave bearing on regional and international security. Equally, the intentions are also clear: India-Pakistan tensions would give the US much-needed leverage with both New Delhi and Islamabad at a juncture when its regional strategies – ‘rebalancing’ to Asia, Afghan endgame, establishment of US military bases, etc – are in the melting pot. Meanwhile, the India-Pakistan peace process must continue.