IN the wake of unfortunate Pahalgam attack, the Indian government has over-reacted with arrogance. It has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed Attari border, and has asked the Pakistani visa holders to leave before May 1. Besides, it has announced reducing the diplomatic staff at its embassy in Pakistan.

As always, without any proof, India has blamed Pakistan for the attack. On the other hand, the government in Pakistan has responded with great maturity by condemning the attack and offering condolence to the bereaved families.

Strangely enough, India, calling itself the world’s largest democracy, has always reacted irresponsibly after every terrorist attack on its soil. In contrast, despite repeated terrorist acts most probably sponsored by India in Balochistan and other parts of the country, Pakistan has handled the matter with diplomatic grace.

India has adopted aggressive policies against Pakistan to deflect the attention of its public and the world from major issues in its own backyard.

India should learn from China, which, despite having much superior economic and military might than India, has behaved with prudence despite Indian provocations. Besides, India should also learn from China’s economic diplomacy through which it is wining hearts and minds in the region and way beyond.

Gulsher Panhwer
Johi

Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2025