Keyword–Peace: A homage to the martyrs of Pathankot
As the world was swinging in 2016, a strategic airbase in India was under attack from terrorists. Indians from across the world closely followed reports by the media on the operation that continued to the fourth of January when it all ended. But precious lives were lost during this time – seven armed forces personnel lost their lives in keeping the country’s security intact. The six terrorists who entered the airbase dressed as army personnel, were also killed.
Since this attack came soon after PM Modi’s surprise visit to Pakistan that was warmly received by his counterpart Nawaz Sharif, this clearly was aimed at derailing the peace process in the region. It is heartening to learn that both the governments remain committed to continuing the dialogue on peace that started over cups of Kashmiri tea in Raiwind on Christmas Day, 2015. Here are a few reasons why India should not retreat from this big step towards peace -
The time is now
It is never too early to be talking peace. The two countries have been at loggerheads since Independence and it is not surprising that the terrorist organisations, numerous of them emanating out of Pakistan have used this relationship breakdown to their advantage. Its important to realize that these terrorists belong to no country and are not attached to anyone. The damage is being caused on both sides of the border and therefore it is important that open communication channels between the leadership of both countries be put in place and peace be given a chance.
Several attempts have previously been made at this peace process but sooner or later the two countries return to their tough stands. India wants to talk cross-border terrorism first and foremost and Pakistan wants to talk Kashmir before any other dialogue can even begin. Pakistan’s support to terrorism comes from its desire for Kashmir, which it has not been able to acquire militarily. This first step therefore for a friendly and open dialogue between the two countries is monumental to establish the peace of the land. Talking Kashmir and terrorism, along with trade, visas and everything else, can bring India (and Pakistan) long-term gains.
Be seen as the change
Gandhi said “Be the change you want to see in the World” it is perhaps critical that India is seen as being the protagonist for bringing about this change. This is a time of immense international pressure be it from Washington wanting peace in the region for the sake of Afghanistan, or China that is wanting to reach its potential with the trade corridor it wants to establish with Pakistan or be it the business lobbies of the two countries that realize the importance of peace in the region for economic prosperity. To add to the list is the nuclear capability of the two countries. In an environment such as this – it is imperative that India continues to engage Pakistan in a dialogue for establishing peace in the region.
End the blackmail
If terror strikes are aimed at halting India-Pakistan talks, then why give the terrorists what they want? Why give in to the blackmail and bullying? If the talks prevail despite this attempt to derail them, then the terrorist would have received the retaliation that is the need of the hour. It is important that they realise that their trick is not working anymore.
Work with the voice of the people
For years, one has heard stories of brotherhood amongst the peoples of the two countries. Needless to say, our shared history and culture makes the bond even stronger. Now that the leaders of both countries have shown an interest to have a dialogue, talks with Pakistan should be used as an opportunity by both sides to build public opinion for peace in both countries. Doing this will be vital in isolating those who do not want normalisation of relations, such as terrorists and their supporters.
Making Pathankot the starting point for peace will be a true homage to the courageous heroes who laid down their lives in the line of duty.
As the world was swinging in 2016, a strategic airbase in India was under attack from terrorists. Indians from across the world closely followed reports by the media on the operation that continued to the fourth of January when it all ended. But precious lives were lost during this time – seven...
As the world was swinging in 2016, a strategic airbase in India was under attack from terrorists. Indians from across the world closely followed reports by the media on the operation that continued to the fourth of January when it all ended. But precious lives were lost during this time – seven armed forces personnel lost their lives in keeping the country’s security intact. The six terrorists who entered the airbase dressed as army personnel, were also killed.
Since this attack came soon after PM Modi’s surprise visit to Pakistan that was warmly received by his counterpart Nawaz Sharif, this clearly was aimed at derailing the peace process in the region. It is heartening to learn that both the governments remain committed to continuing the dialogue on peace that started over cups of Kashmiri tea in Raiwind on Christmas Day, 2015. Here are a few reasons why India should not retreat from this big step towards peace -
The time is now
It is never too early to be talking peace. The two countries have been at loggerheads since Independence and it is not surprising that the terrorist organisations, numerous of them emanating out of Pakistan have used this relationship breakdown to their advantage. Its important to realize that these terrorists belong to no country and are not attached to anyone. The damage is being caused on both sides of the border and therefore it is important that open communication channels between the leadership of both countries be put in place and peace be given a chance.
Several attempts have previously been made at this peace process but sooner or later the two countries return to their tough stands. India wants to talk cross-border terrorism first and foremost and Pakistan wants to talk Kashmir before any other dialogue can even begin. Pakistan’s support to terrorism comes from its desire for Kashmir, which it has not been able to acquire militarily. This first step therefore for a friendly and open dialogue between the two countries is monumental to establish the peace of the land. Talking Kashmir and terrorism, along with trade, visas and everything else, can bring India (and Pakistan) long-term gains.
Be seen as the change
Gandhi said “Be the change you want to see in the World” it is perhaps critical that India is seen as being the protagonist for bringing about this change. This is a time of immense international pressure be it from Washington wanting peace in the region for the sake of Afghanistan, or China that is wanting to reach its potential with the trade corridor it wants to establish with Pakistan or be it the business lobbies of the two countries that realize the importance of peace in the region for economic prosperity. To add to the list is the nuclear capability of the two countries. In an environment such as this – it is imperative that India continues to engage Pakistan in a dialogue for establishing peace in the region.
End the blackmail
If terror strikes are aimed at halting India-Pakistan talks, then why give the terrorists what they want? Why give in to the blackmail and bullying? If the talks prevail despite this attempt to derail them, then the terrorist would have received the retaliation that is the need of the hour. It is important that they realise that their trick is not working anymore.
Work with the voice of the people
For years, one has heard stories of brotherhood amongst the peoples of the two countries. Needless to say, our shared history and culture makes the bond even stronger. Now that the leaders of both countries have shown an interest to have a dialogue, talks with Pakistan should be used as an opportunity by both sides to build public opinion for peace in both countries. Doing this will be vital in isolating those who do not want normalisation of relations, such as terrorists and their supporters.
Making Pathankot the starting point for peace will be a true homage to the courageous heroes who laid down their lives in the line of duty.
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