Tuesday, February 23, 2010

India and Pakistan

Once more many of us must read yet another article about an issue we sometimes wish, would just cease to exist. Yet you wont find a street corner where this topic isnt being discussed in some form of the other. Just another way the human mind works. Indo-Pak relations are probably one of the most dynamic in the world and I pity the foreign relations student who chooses this as a case study. After over sixty years of independence and having fought four major wars our nations have progressed little. Blame this attentuation of diplomatic resolve on whomever you want, but that will not bring us any closer to a solution. The latest hurdles include videotapes of Hafeez Mohammed Saeed's "Jihad on India" speech. I have found it amazing that despite the obvious proof of terror emanating from across the Indian border, how is it that there have been so few extraditions between our nations. Why is it that despite the speeches Mr. Saeed makes, he is a free man?

The answer to these questions require one to be aware of Pakistan's origin and present status. Pakistan was primarily created in an era of nationalism. The nation, being surrounded by a bigger and obviously hurt neighbour(India) relied on the Two Nation theory to retain its independence and distinct cultural heritage. On 1971 everything changed; with the creation of an independent Bangladesh, India could claim the two nation theory to be void. Meanwhile the cultural amalgamation of islam with hinduism which was exceptionally visible in Lucknow and Hyderabad, proved that Indian diversity could stand the test of time. Presidents of India have been muslims. All these began to prove Mr. Jinnah's fears to be unfound. There were problems but problems existed in Pakistan as well. Out of fear of loosing its identity Pakistan united in the oly way it could; against India. India became a common foe and a rallying cry for unity. That is why even today Pakistan finds it difficult to concede even on moral terms with India. Every dealing with Hindustan must be a victorious outcome for the eyes of the public.

Come modernity, and these issues are changing. The youth find more similarity amongst themselves than differences. Yet, several thousands are still drawn into the extremist teachings of some. India and Pakistan can attempt to ride the issue out, to wait for the demise of the ideology. That though would tire that patience of many. To act now would require India to play a cautious part. American power was often characterized by the victories in Iraq or Germany but often enough true power is displayed by those who are poised and composed. That is the inherent Indian nature of dealing with problems. That is why, Mr. Saeed, India cannot be defeated like NATO or America. We do not play by their rules so you do not know how to play us. Hell! sometimes even I cant forsee what we will do. We however will not give in to emotions alone; as an ancient civilization we have learned much from history and time. We will take it one day at a time and strike when and where neccesary.
http://www.opendrive.com/files/7836680_Px9dI_9911/Little%20Drummer%20Boy%20-%20London%20Symphony%20Orchestra.mp3
http://www.opendrive.com/files/7836680_Px9dI_9911/Little%20Drummer%20Boy%20-%20London%20Symphony%20Orchestra.mp3
http://www.opendrive.com/files/7837199_8CYGB_9b94/The%20Killers%20-%20Human.mp3