Sikh killings may turn public mood against talks

The shocking news of beheading of two Sikhs in the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) of Pakistan — just four days ahead of a crucial meeting of the India-Pakistan foreign secretary meet — is likely to create much public animosity and make prime minister Manmohan Singh’s hopes of engagement more difficult.

Though details of these murders are awaited, public mood in India is likely to be negative. Officials of the ministry of external affairs have said they need to get the full picture from the high commission in Islamabad.

The Sikh families live in constant danger in the remote areas of the NWFP — a Taliban stronghold. They have been harassed and a special religious tax levied on them. Many families have already left for other cities in Pakistan. The latest killings are likely to come up for discussion when the parliament assembles for the budget session on Monday.

The government of Pakistan cannot be blamed for this. It’s a handiwork of those opposed to India-Pakistan dialogue. It’s probably aimed at spoiling the atmosphere. The Taliban is known for its opposition to India.

“The killings could be just its way of sending a message to New Delhi that you may talk to the civilian government of Pakistan but cannot protect Sikh people living in that country,” a senior official said.