Nothing will be achieved through tensions, conflicts or war. Rather it will increase the plight of the common people. Loss of lives, destruction of properties, ruined economy is the phenomenon attached with war. Thus instead of escalating tensions and creating a war-like situation, leadership of both India and Pakistan should show enough maturity to turn this part of the globe as a ‘place of peace.’
Everyone knows that it is easier said than done. For the last 70 years distrust, animosity has increased so much that even in normal times one did not hesitate to accuse another for all the wrongs in their respective countries. But time has come now for all of us to realise that the ‘Two Nation’ theory was more of a ploy applied by the British rulers to weaken this subcontinent. The theory may have satisfied their burnished ego, but it left a permanent mark on the minds of the people. But no one can always live in the past. The idea may sound romantic, but it’s impractical. While we should not ignore lessons from the past, at the same time we must look towards future. We have come a long way when the British rulers divided us. So, whatever we do today, it must be in sync with the reality of present times.
But sadly, the mindset of the mandarins of both the countries has not changed. Since Independence, one is looking at the other as an enemy. The two countries don’t believe each other. One must admit that efforts were made to build a healthy relation between the two countries a few times. But every effort has so far met with failure. It clearly proves both the countries are yet find a statesman, who could bridge the gap. The situation was best summed up by none other than former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf. During his maiden tour to India, as President of Pakistan, Mr. Musharraf lamented that any ruler going back to Pakistan from India without achieving something regarding Kashmir, was bound to be stripped of power.
Mr. Musharraf was right. It is the ‘K’ word which has kept peace away in this subcontinent. According to Islamabad, Kashmir is a disputed territory. On the other hand India claims Kashmir as an integral part of the country. It is understandable that when the views of both the countries are poles apart there is no quick fix solution on this particular problem. So the best step both the countries should take is to keep on negotiating on Kashmir, while cooperation and understanding on other sectors should reach to its logical conclusion. Increased ties between the two countries will definitely reduce tensions. But harping only on Kashmir, neglecting other sectors, will create a situation like putting the cart in front of the horse.
So, the situation demands maturity. The situation demands understanding of the present day realities. We will have to make our destiny. We should be the architects of our fate. We must remember that when we fought against each other, we got divided. Thus to amend that mistake we will have to unite first.
