Recent change in the Indian government’s stance could just be an attempt to address international pressure
ISLAMABAD: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently came to Pakistan on an informal and brief visit, which was a huge surprise for the general public of both countries. However, recent reports aired by Indian media suggest that this trip was actually planned beforehand and was deliberately kept confidential. Several circles in both countries are criticising this visit, but this opposition can be regarded as political opposition as the trip was widely hailed, not only here in Pakistan but also across the border. This was the first visit by an Indian prime minister in 11 years so it can rightfully be regarded as a diplomatic breakthrough in the relations between the two countries, which have remained sour in recent years.
Many analysts are also surprised about the U-turn in Modi’s stance towards Pakistan as he has been very critical and hostile towards his immediate neighbour. Whether it is firing at the Line of Control (LoC), the Kashmir issue or the matter of playing cricket, Modi’s government has been very uncompromising — something that many critics attribute to his hardline policy to win over the support of fundamentalist groups that have always been his mainstay.
Recently, an Indian journalist claimed that a secret meeting of the two prime ministers was held sometime back, which was later denied by the spokespersons of both leaders. Opposition parties in both countries tried to make political mileage by strongly criticising the said meeting, but after the denial, this story was lost in the haze. Certain segments within Pakistan have always questioned the Nawaz Sharif government about its friendly stance towards India and regard this as something that benefits Mr Sharif’s personal business interests.
Pakistan should be very cautious about moving forward with relations vis-a-vis India, as the recent change in the Indian government’s stance could just be an attempt to address international pressure. Whatever the case may be, the people of both countries just want peace, as there is no other solution to their problems.
Abdul Ghani Chohan
Published in The Express Tribune, January 1st, 2016.
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