ANY hopes of a thaw in Pakistan-India relations should swiftly be put to rest after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s problematic comments in the disputed Ladakh region.
Addressing an event to mark the anniversary of the Kargil war on Friday, Mr Modi used the occasion to lambast Pakistan, trotting out the tired old trope of ‘terrorism’ in an attempt to burnish his nationalistic credentials. If such words had been used on the campaign trail, it would have been unfortunate yet understandable.
But the Indian leader’s eagerness to indulge in Pakistan-bashing so early into his third term can only be construed as the ruling BJP’s aversion to the idea of establishing better ties with this country. The Indian prime minister accused Pakistan of trying to stay relevant through “terrorism” and “proxy war”. He said that Pakistan had “not learned any lessons” from the past while adding boasts and threats aimed at this country.
Perhaps the direct trigger for Mr Modi’s undiplomatic and highly inflammatory outburst is the situation in occupied Kashmir, where there have been several recent attacks targeting Indian forces. According to one tally, at least 12 Indian soldiers have been killed in the occupied region this year so far.
However, India has no one to blame but itself for unrest in the disputed territory. India has claimed that its controversial step of stripping held Kashmir of its special constitutional status five years ago has brought peace and development to the region. If that is the case, why does India maintain over 100,000 troops in this geographically small region? The fact is that, instead of carrying forward the tripartite dialogue involving Pakistan and the Kashmiris to peacefully resolve the Kashmir question, the Modi dispensation has sought to unilaterally change ‘facts on the ground’, even though the region continues to be seen as a disputed territory as per international consensus.
Responding to India’s tirade, the Foreign Office has said that while Pakistan is ready to defend itself, “it remains committed to promoting peace” in the region. Practically, this means that the deep freeze in relations that took hold in August 2019 will continue until India decides to approach Pakistan with respect and the desire to make peace. Saber-rattling aside, India should avoid any misadventures, as Pakistan can and will defend itself. When New Delhi feels that it is ready for peace, it is welcome to call Islamabad.
The blueprint for peace already exists, whether in the shape of confidence-building measures, or the Musharraf-era scheme for a resolution to the Kashmir dispute. All these measures can be discussed and fine-tuned, leading to a just resolution. But first, Delhi must stop demonizing Pakistan, and show a willingness for peace.
Brief on Pakistan-India Relations
Pakistan’s Perspective
Pakistan-India relations have been fraught with tensions and hostilities for decades, rooted primarily in the unresolved issue of Kashmir. Pakistan’s narrative emphasizes its commitment to regional peace, security, and prosperity, consistently advocating for dialogue and peaceful resolution of disputes. Despite Pakistan’s genuine efforts to foster a cooperative relationship, Indian intransigence and aggressive policies continue to undermine peace in South Asia.
Root Cause of Tensions
The primary root cause of tensions between Pakistan and India is the long-standing and unresolved Kashmir conflict. The dispute dates back to 1947 when the Indian subcontinent was partitioned, leading to the creation of Pakistan and India. Despite numerous United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions calling for a plebiscite to allow the people of Jammu and Kashmir to determine their future, India has persistently defied these resolutions, refusing to grant the Kashmiri people their right to self-determination.
Indian Negativity and Spoiling Regional Peace
India’s actions in Kashmir have been a major source of instability in the region. The revocation of Article 370 in August 2019, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status, was a unilateral move that escalated tensions and provoked international condemnation. India’s heavy-handed military presence and human rights abuses in Kashmir have further aggravated the situation, leading to widespread unrest and resentment among the Kashmiri people.
India’s aggressive posture extends beyond Kashmir. The frequent ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC), inflammatory rhetoric from Indian political leaders, and support for anti-Pakistan elements undermine efforts towards peace and stability. These actions reflect a broader strategy of regional dominance and hegemony, jeopardizing the prospects for a harmonious South Asia.
Pakistan as a Peace-Maker
In contrast, Pakistan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to peace and dialogue. Numerous peace overtures have been made by Pakistan to resolve bilateral issues amicably. Prime Minister Imran Khan’s repeated calls for dialogue and cooperation, including the Kartarpur Corridor initiative, exemplify Pakistan’s desire for peaceful coexistence.
Despite these efforts, India has repeatedly rebuffed Pakistan’s peace initiatives. The refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue, coupled with India’s unilateral actions in Kashmir, highlights its reluctance to pursue genuine peace and stability in the region.
Pakistani Offers for Peace and Rejection by India
- Composite Dialogue Process: Pakistan has consistently called for the resumption of the Composite Dialogue Process, which addresses all outstanding issues, including Kashmir. However, India has frequently stalled or abandoned these talks.
- Kartarpur Corridor Initiative: Pakistan’s initiative to open the Kartarpur Corridor, allowing Indian Sikh pilgrims visa-free access to one of their holiest sites, was a significant peace gesture. Despite its success, India has not reciprocated with similar measures.
- Bilateral Talks: Pakistan has repeatedly extended offers for bilateral talks at various international forums, only to be met with India’s refusal or preconditions that stall progress.
India as a Defaulter of UNSC Resolutions
India’s failure to implement UNSC resolutions on Kashmir remains a fundamental obstacle to peace. The resolutions call for a free and impartial plebiscite under UN auspices, allowing the Kashmiri people to determine their own fate. India’s persistent denial of this right not only contravenes international law but also fuels ongoing conflict and suffering in the region.
Conclusion
The path to regional peace and prosperity in South Asia lies in resolving the Kashmir dispute by international law and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Pakistan’s consistent efforts towards dialogue and peace contrast starkly with India’s aggressive policies and refusal to engage constructively. As a peace-maker, Pakistan remains committed to fostering a stable and cooperative South Asia. Still, the onus is on India to abandon its intransigence and work towards peacefully resolving disputes.
By honoring UNSC resolutions and engaging in sincere dialogue, India can contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous region. Until then, Pakistan will continue to advocate for the rights of the Kashmiri people and pursue peace through diplomatic means.
Source:- https://www.dawn.com/news/1848458