Mudassir Rizwan
The recent militant attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives, has once again brought the Kashmir issue to the forefront of international attention. While the attack is a heinous act that must be unequivocally condemned, the subsequent responses from India and Pakistan have highlighted the deep-rooted tensions and the urgent need for a comprehensive and peaceful resolution to the Kashmir conflict.
In the aftermath of the attack, India’s response was swift and severe. The Indian government suspended the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, a vital water-sharing agreement between the two countries, and closed the Wagah-Attari border crossing. These measures, while signaling India’s anger and frustration, also risk escalating the situation and further straining bilateral relations .
The Indian government’s decision to expel Pakistani diplomats and withdraw its own military advisers from Islamabad reflects a breakdown in diplomatic channels. Such actions, rather than fostering peace, contribute to an atmosphere of hostility and mistrust. Moreover, the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, which has survived previous conflicts, is particularly concerning. Water is a critical resource, and any disruption in its sharing can have severe humanitarian and ecological consequences.
Pakistan, while condemning the attack, has denied any involvement and criticized India’s punitive measures. The Pakistani government has expressed its commitment to peace and stability in the region and has called for a measured response to avoid further escalation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a National Security Committee meeting to assess the situation and formulate a strategic response.
Pakistan’s stance emphasizes the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving conflicts. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty by India is viewed by Pakistan as an act of “water warfare,” undermining decades of cooperation and trust between the two nations .
In both India and Pakistan, media coverage and public sentiment play significant roles in shaping national responses to such incidents. In India, some media outlets have been criticized for sensationalizing the attack and promoting narratives of retaliation. This can inflame public emotions and pressure governments to adopt more aggressive stances.
Conversely, in Pakistan, while there is widespread condemnation of the attack, there is also a call for restraint and a focus on diplomatic avenues. The Pakistani media and public discourse emphasize the need to address the root causes of the Kashmir conflict through dialogue and negotiation.
Pl subscribe to the YouTube channel of republicpolicy.com for quality content:
The Pahalgam attack serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in South Asia. It underscores the necessity for both India and Pakistan to engage in sustained dialogue to address the underlying issues fueling the Kashmir conflict. Unilateral actions and punitive measures only deepen divisions and hinder the prospects for peace.
International actors, including the United Nations and neighboring countries, have a role to play in facilitating dialogue and encouraging both nations to return to the negotiating table. Confidence-building measures, such as restoring communication channels, resuming trade, and engaging in people-to-people exchanges, can help rebuild trust and pave the way for a lasting resolution.
In conclusion, while the Pahalgam attack is a tragic event that demands justice, it should not be used as a pretext for further conflict. Both India and Pakistan must prioritize diplomacy over confrontation and work collaboratively to achieve a peaceful and just resolution to the Kashmir dispute. Only through mutual understanding and compromise can the region hope to achieve lasting peace and stability.
