Why do the two neighbours need to enact hatred as a symbol of their national pride?
KARACHI: Before the prime ministers of India and Pakistan can agree on a solution to Kashmir problem, converting Siachen into a peace park or concluding a no-war pact, they could begin by taking a few small steps that can bring the two neighbours closer to decency, if not peace. Each day, as the flags are lowered at the Wagah border, Indian and Pakistani guards high-kick and stamp their feet in a vulgar display of aggression, anger and animosity. The spectators on both sides line up in large numbers to passionately applaud this officially choreographed drama of make-believe power and masculinity.
Why do the two neighbours need to enact hatred as a symbol of their national pride? Why can they not lower their flags with peace and dignity — as it is done the world over? Is it too much to ask that as the fever subsides at Mohali, the two prime ministers will come to a small and simple agreement — that the two sides will henceforth put an end to the disgusting daily display of belligerent posturing at the Wagah border.
Naeem Sadiq
Published in The Express Tribune, March 31st, 2011.
