Composite Dialogue

Soon the two nuclear powered countries in South Asia will enter their third round of composite dialogue. The problem between these two neighbors has bedeviled their relation for the last 58 years since their partition. For the last six months we were here, this issue has been in the agenda in almost all the lectures, discussions and exercises. Of course, it is understandable since Indo/Pak relations has great impact on the overall security concern of both the states, external or internal. In one of our earlier syndicate discussion we identified two major steps taken by both governments to find an everlasting solution. One is the holding of composite dialogues and the other is the setting up of several Confidence Building Measures (CBMs). To a certain extent these has helped in putting the problem at rest. At least the ceasefire is holding and there are several openings at the Line of Control (LoC). Soon if all goes well there may be bus services across the LoC.

But my argument is that, these measures are steps taken at the official level by both the governments. There is a great need for the other form measures to be taken, such as by the NGOs and people themselves. After all, good and stable relations will serve the people. Currently,very little roles are being played by the organizations and people to people contact is almost nil. Whatever contacts they have are only amongst the people of Kashmir and even that in a controlled environment. What we have seen thus far is far from what we hope to achieve. During our visit to Wagah for the flag lowering ceremony we witnessed how people from both sides acted to the slightest provocation. The people treated the ceremony as a spectator sport, cheering and jeering and shouting provocative slogans. I always felt that the whole thing is actually a charade, designed to play with the emotions of the people from both sides. It certainly does not augur well with the need for non confrontational approach to the whole problem.

The role of the media is also vital in promoting people to people contact and molding positive opinion towards peaceful settlement. A while back, I happen come across a forum programme on the cable TV (CNN hosted by Jim Clancy) conducted to debate on this relationship issue, attended by audience made up of youngsters. From the questions forwarded, I gathered all of them wishes a normalization in relation and wishes the two countries to forget the pass, move on and progress. To me, the countries belongs to this generation and their opinion need to be taken aboard. Like I said in my earlier blog posting, both countries need to take positive steps in settling the issue. The window of opportunity is now and any further delay will not be good at all. Furthermore, the Kashmiris are continuing to suffer with this impasse, what more after the earthquake. One more thing - Kashmiris need to be in the whole equation and their opinion matters. Act now for the sake of the muslim ummah!!

Helen and Benj - if you are reading this posting, just to let you know that this weekend I will be going to Kashmir for our organised visit. We will be visiting Muzaffarabad and if the weather holds, will be able to peer across the LoC at IHK. Will let you know on the situation there once I get back. Will keep you posted.