The fear of Islamists getting their hands on nuclear weapons in Pakistan has always been there, mainly discussed by Western commentators.
DNA Analysis
NEW DELHI: There is concern in official circles in India about the safety of Pakistan's nuclear installations against the backdrop of the deteriorating security situation in that country. Jehadis in Pakistan are now targeting the army, even the ISI.
The attack on the bus belonging to the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission has heightened latent fears about the safety of Islamabad's nuclear installations.
The fear of Islamists getting their hands on nuclear weapons in Pakistan has always been there, mainly discussed by Western commentators.
Though India has never commented on this issue, it was not because of lack of concern. With suicide bombers out to get to President Musharraf, India is watching with some amount of consternation. But so long as the army remains a cohesive unit backing the general, the danger is limited.
"I don't think under the present circumstances there is the danger of the nuclear weapons or installations falling into the hands of radical Islamists. They are well protected and it won't be easy for militants to get access to these areas," says Parthasarathy, former Indian high commissioner to Pakistan.
However the question remains how long will the army remain a cohesive unit. Can the soldiers be insulated from the strong feelings against the US and what is perceived in the Islamic world as President Bush's war against Islam? In rural areas of Pakistan, the feeling that Islam is under threat worldwide is common.
As Musharraf appears to lose control, many within the lower ranks of the army may decide to switch loyalties. India is hoping that the situation in Pakistan calms down and stability returns to the country. An unstable Pakistan is a threat to peace in the region.
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