India-Pak secys’ talks possible by May end

After going through several fits and starts the home secretary-level talks between India Pakistan are now finally expected to take place in May end.

The much delayed talks are going to a be a keenly watched affair, especially after the recent visit of Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari that is being seen as vital by Pakistan observers for openly snubbing Wahabi Islamists by paying obedience to Dargah Ajmer Sharif - a Sufi shrine depicting all encompassing love for all.

Old hands on Pakistan desk said linking Zardari’s visit with having talks with prime minister Manmohan Singh is not as significant as his visit to Dargah Ajmer Sharif, donating $1 million there and singing paens to Kwaja Gharib Nawaj Moinuddin Chisty.

“By doing this Zardari is trying to put the politics of old (pre-General Zia ul Haq) establishment back in the saddle in Pakistan. It is a clear indication to the Wahabi offshoots of Islam Hafiz Saeed included, that their brand of politics is not welcome and Pakistan wants a tolerant society,” a retired government official said.

Sources in the government set up also agree with the theory and hope that it would augur well for India in future albeit it will happen very slowly and the need is to strengthen the hands of moderate Islam in Pakistan.