Handling a foolish friend

Since taking over as the democratically elected prime minister of Pakistan, Nawaz Sharif has only rephrased the country’s erstwhile stand with regard to keeping friendly relations with India.  His status as the political head of state and the equation with its standing army and Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) is precariously postured. Even if he does have some intention to improve relations with India, he will never be in a position to expound it wholly.  The recent killing of our jawans on the border, described as “butchery”, needs to be rewritten  by the media, as this undermines the valour and preparedness of our standing army.  It was a grave act of cowardice by the Pak army, violating the ceasefire and confidence building measures already in place.

Debating with panellists who have a military background will not ease the situation as these individuals will only try and score brownie points in an attempt to whip up sentiments.  The entire world is generally agreed that Pakistan is a rogue state. So, how will we accept its wrongdoings when some sections are hell-bent on denying their acts and motives.  Since 1947, India has exhibited sufficient resilience in extending its hand for improving relations. Declaring Pakistan a hostile (rogue) state will not only envisage the secured environment along the line of actual control, but also benefit Indians at large to focus on other issues. “An intelligent enemy is always better to handle than a foolish friend”.
—Enoch Ajgarn, by email