The need to resolve mutual disputes
Accusing Pakistan of using ‘new methods’ for creating unrest in Jammu and Kashmir and extending the arc of violence to other areas, the Indian Army Chief said India was prepared for ‘swift and short’ wars in the future. The generals are often misled by their own war plans. This has often led to military blunders that have cost heavily in terms of human casualties, from Napoleon’s attempt to conquer Russia to America’s decision to invade Iraq. The best way is therefore to resolve all disputes including Kashmir through talks. The resort to force is always a statement of failure and the worst of all solutions. All plans look good till one meets the enemy, as George W Bush summarised the experience of his misadventure in Iraq.
It is time India and Pakistan stopped the blame game and sat down to settle their disputes earnestly. The insurgencies the two countries face are in the main an outcome of their own misgovernance, be these in the Indian controlled Kashmir, Manipur, and Chhattisgarh or the one in Pakistan’s Balochistan. Outsiders can play a role only when the inmates of a house are divided.
The two countries cannot realise their economic potential unless they stop using the language of threats and agree to sort out their difference peacefully. Any war between the two started in the hope of a quick resolution might prolong beyond expectations and turn out to be highly devastating. Both Modi and Sharif are keen for foreign investments and fast economic growth in their respective countries. Any military adventure will scare away potential investors and destroy vital infrastructure. The gains made through years of hard work and self-sacrifice would thus be nullified within weeks.
Ceasefire violations have taken toll of the lives of several innocent civilians on both sides. The rising tensions are a source of worry to the international community. Instead of muscle flexing the two sides should undertake a serious and genuine exercise in brainstorming.
