Pakistani PM Imran Khan’s talk of more Pulwama-like attacks and war after India’s decision to scrap Article 370 in J&K is reckless, but not unexpected. It’s a predictable spiral Modi government has hopefully factored in. Distracted world powers better keep an eye on Pakistan given its history of tactical adventurism.
Congress leaders have finally learnt the ‘national interest’ lesson, but it’s a bit late
Congress leaders are belatedly discovering a dominant political currency called ‘national interest’, using it to support the BJP’s move to nullify Article 370 for J&K. It shows they have learned from the election defeat. But it is too little too late. And the rudderless party has only itself to blame.
It would be more productive for Pakistan to leverage its enhanced utility to the West to secure substantial loans and assistance from multilateral organisations like the IMF and the World Bank. America’s indulgence would not extend to securing it immunity from a drastic Indian response to a Pulwama level provocation. 2. On India’s side, great care should be taken to manage the fallout to recent constitutional changes. Widespread disaffection, met with state force, would not be well received globally. 3. One hopes both sides have analysed the sequence of events leading up to 14th Feb and concluding on the 27th. Some useful, emergent external intervention secured the immediate release of Wing Commander Abhinandan. Else this one issue, with the general election looming, would have led to a disproportionately riposte. The security establishments need to be in constant touch.