India and Pakistan at it again
The NSA level talks with India could not take place because New Delhi was not willing to discuss Kashmir and Pakistan would hold no talks if Kashmir was not included in the agenda. This put paid to the latest attempt by the neighbouring countries to reduce tensions. The continuation of exchange of fire between the two sides is the first consequence resulting from the failure of the talks. On Friday Pakistani media reported six dead on this side of the Working Boundary while the Indian media reported 3 dead on their side. As usual each country accused the other of firing first. Unless rationality prevails and a fresh attempt is made to improve relations, the killings would continue with the duels becoming more frequent and deadly. What is more, new grievances are likely to be added if the slide in relations is not arrested.
The border officials of Pakistan and India are scheduled to meet next month in New Delhi for a bi-annual meeting. To coordinate the modalities, a prior meeting was held on Tuesday between representatives of the Rangers and BSF. This is to be followed by the DGMOs’ meeting which offers another opportunity for peace along the borders. As things stand uncertainty prevails about the later meeting. While Kashmir remains, no doubt, a crucial issue that needs to be resolved, there are also other important matters that cannot be left unattended, peace on the borders being one. Despite hostilities between the US and Soviet Union climaxing during the Cold War with the possibility of a nuclear war becoming a subject for serious discussion, the two sides did not hesitate to talk. Again, in spite of China and India having strong difference over the border issue, at one time going to war over it, they not only continue to hold talks but have also increased mutually beneficial trade.
At a time when relations between the two countries have touched the nadir, the ongoing chatter about Pak-India cricket series seems out of place.
