Border guards of India, Pakistan agree to end ceasefire violations

The meeting between the DGs of border guards took place as per an agreement between PM Nawaz Shairf and Narendra Modi

The directors general of Pakistan Rangers and India’s Border Security Forces have agreed to end ceasefire violations by devising new strategies like joint patrolling in some areas along the border in the disputed Kashmir territory against the backdrop of escalation in tensions, the Press Trust of India reported on Thursday.

On the first day of their talks, the two sides decided to have a positive outlook for the future while blaming each other for initiating ceasefire violations.

The meeting between the DGs of border guards took place as per an agreement between Prime Minister Nawaz Shairf and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi in Ufa in July and despite the cancellation of the NSA talks last month. Such a meeting is being held after a gap of 21 months.

Both sides agreed that it would serve no purpose if talks hovered about the past and rather focus should be on future and devising mechanism to prevent any escalation of tension along the border.

After the day-long talks, BSF chief  D K Pathak, who led the Indian side, expressed happiness over the deliberations. “I wouldn’t say anything beyond that the talks went on in a very cordial manner and we are happy about it... Talks are meant to end the animosity and I am very happy with talks. It has progressed in a positive atmosphere,” Pathak  told PTI.

Sources said the Indian side suggested that rather than debating and contesting about the past incidents, the two sides should work on a future strategy to make this border peaceful and safe for troops and civilians alike.

“The most significant takeaway of the talks has been that the two sides agreed that maintenance of peace and tranquillity on this border is the most important issue and this needs to be implemented on the ground,” officials said.

Representatives of Pakistan Rangers are scheduled to call on Home Minister Rajnath Singh tomorrow and later meet officials of the Pakistan High Commission. “Yes, the talks have been extended for a day and a special session will be held tomorrow to decide on protocols that will be put in place to put an end to ceasefire violations and make the Indo-Pak border tranquil,” they said.


Published in The Express Tribune, September 11^th, 2015.