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Improving Indo-Pak relations

In his front-page editorial, “Put peace process back on track” (March 26), H.K. Dua has detailed the points which, if followed sincerely, will go a long way in developing cordial relations between the two countries.

The Kashmir issue has been an apple of discord between India and Pakistan for the last 60 years. Geographically and politically, the Jammu and Kashmir state as ruled by Maharaja Hari Singh stands divided. Why not accept the reality and maintain the status quo by converting the LoC into an international border?

Experimenting autonomy and other options might prove disastrous for us. Special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 has further alienated Kashmir from us. When we emphasise that Kashmir is an integral part of India, where is the scope for compromise? Why dither under diplomatic pressure or terrorism let loose on us?

If we want to live in peace, we must be content with the parts of Kashmir we have. It is the safest and trusted solution to embark upon the path of peace, mutual trust, fraternity and allround prosperity.

KARNAIL SINGH, Kharar

II

Mr Dua’s front-page editorial is timely and appropriate. There has been a strong public sentiment in both countries in favour of accelerating the peace process and establishing a cooperative framework for bilateral ties. Leading personalities of the ruling coalition in Pakistan have been strong advocates of friendly ties between our two countries.

Army Chief General Kayani has also instructed his commanders to shun politics and focus on professional responsibilities. Presently, both countries are passing through similar circumstances like coalition regimes, threat of terrorism, spiralling prices, etc. A  truly representative Parliament instead of military rule has come into being in Pakistan. Pakistan also agreed to continue to fight extremists, contrary to the ISI’s earlier role against India.

Hopefully, the public statements will be backed by concrete action and grasping the hand of friendship offered by both countries will be one of the major inputs which will be beneficial for both countries and the entire sub-continent. 

S.K. KHOSLA, Chandigarh

III

The peace efforts initiated by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and followed up by Dr Manmohan Singh and Mr Musharraf and the Foreign Secretaries of India and Pakistan should be fruitfully utilised by the new government of Pakistan. The US too has announced its support to the new regime in Islamabad. On March 26, President George Bush had telephoned Pakistan Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani.

During a visit to Lahore two years back, many people told me that they wholeheartedly endorsed the peace efforts by both countries at that time. They told me that they prayed for peace and were keen on visiting India to promote good relations.

Both countries should open their borders and relax the travel rules so that people can move freely and with confidence. Pakistan can improve its economic position by reducing its expenditure on the defence.

O.P. GARG, Patiala

IV

I agree with Mr Dua’s view that Asif Zardari and Nawaz Sharif need not fear that the Army may scuttle the peace process. Now both Pakistani leaders who were political rivals in the past have decided to work for the betterment of Pakistani people who have suffered a lot in the last one decade.

The people of Pakistan are fed up with the explosive situation in their country. Despite a few misguided elements, things seem to be settling down. Both countries must work hard to restore peace and harmony in their countries.

SUBHASH CHANDER TANEJA, Rohtak

V

For the past 60 years, people on both sides of the divide have gone through difficult times including partition and mass migration of population. Subsequently, four military misadventures and terrorist-sponsored violence deep inside Indian territory have complicated the situation further.

Though Pakistan is the only country in the world which has patronised jihadi groups and trained them for bleeding India through a low intensity war, it has miserably failed in its nefarious plan. Whenever India extended its hand of friendship, it was aborted at the highest level in Pakistan. Why this deep-rooted hatred against India when it has sincerely accepted the creation of Pakistan?

The monster of jihad is already creating problems for Pakistan. It is in their own interest if all the disputes are settled amicably and peacefully across the table through mutual dialogue. Let us give peace a chance.

H. S. BADHAN, Hoshiarpur

VI

Mr Dua has given a timely advice and warning to the rulers of Pakistan and India. It is time to patch up wisely and methodically. Even after the installation of the new government in Pakistan, a clear check on the designs of President Pervez Musharraf is essential.

All the problems including Kashmir can be solved with mutual understanding. The dialogue process between secretaries of both countries will solve the differences and other conflicts.

S. K. MITTAL, Panchkula