Stable Pakistan is in India’s interest, will better ties, says TCA Raghavan

TCA Raghavan, former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan, tells DNA’s Abhishek Bhalla in an interview that greater political stability in Pakistan is in India’s interest. Excerpts:  

What impact will the election in Pakistan have on India?

It will largely be fought on domestic issues. It’s difficult to make an assessment on the impact it will have on India till the results are announced. The election itself might not lead to a dramatic change. One has to see the complexions post the election.

What changes can be expected after the election in Indo-Pak relations?

Pakistan has been in a phase of heightened instability in the last few years. This election alone may not change that situation, going by the current scenario. A major change is unlikely as far as India’s relations with Pakistan are concerned. The situation could remain to be in flux.

Will Kashmir resonate?

The Kashmir issue will not have much prominence in the election. The Line of Control (LoC) is largely a tactical issue. It is only a symptom of a larger reflection on bilateral relations between the two countries. The politicians are pre occupied with internal issues, the continuous strife and the economic situation.  

What sort of a result will be good for India. Imran Khan or Nawaz Sharif?

Greater political stability in Pakistan is good for India. Stability in Pakistan is in India’s interest and will lead to better relations. Let’s hope we don’t have a situation after the election where instability leads to complexities.

How important a role will Pakistan’s Army play in the election?

The Army definitely has a larger-than-life role in Pakistan. But Nawaz Sharif talking so much is new for Pakistan. It will be interesting to see how the situation changes if there is no clear winner. In case of a coalition, everything will depend on how many votes the leading party has.