The recent deadly attack that took place in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) Pahalgam region in which 26 tourists were killed, has rekindled the dangerous tensions between Pakistan and India, between the two nuclear armed nations. The Indian reports suggests that 4-5 militants carried out the attack, and the Indian media swiftly accused Pakistan without waiting for an official investigation or statement from the Indian government. The Indian media hastily shifted blame to Pakistan, raising concerns about knee-jerk nationalism. The media fueled public outrage and increased cross-border tensions instead of scrutinizing their government’s intelligence and security lapses, especially in a high-security tourist area.
India shifted the focus of its security failures to blaming Pakistan
After the attack, India shifted the focus of its security failures to blaming Pakistan. This blame game was followed by escalating tensions through various measures, including talks of suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), downgrading diplomatic relations, imposing visa restrictions under the SAARC, closing the Attari border, and using aggressive rhetoric. Indian leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, warned of “unimaginable punishment” for the attackers and their backers, while the congressperson went so far as to suggest that “Rawalpindi should be flattened.” Such reactions, taken without solid evidence, were highly irresponsible, especially considering the nuclear capabilities of both countries.
“Water and blood cannot flow together”
The most spontaneous and alarming act by India was the suspension of the IWT a pact that has survived wars and decades of hostility. This step seems consistent with Modi earlier intentions, as he had hinted earlier as leveraging water as a tool after Uri attack, stating “water and blood cannot flow together”. However, moving hastily toward unilateral suspension based on unverified claims violates international law and sets a dangerous precedent. It implies India may be using the attack to renegotiate the treaty to its favor.
Moreover, the cross-border fire continues to trade across the line of control (LOC). India doesn’t appear to be willing to ease tensions. Analysts believe the Indian hostile action is driven by multiple factors.
- Popular pressure: Modi’s Government after years of attributing India as “invincible”, now faces public pressure to assert dominance.
- Political opportunism:The militants of Pahalgam attack targeted the Hindu tourists, that fits into the very narrative of BJP. The incident allows Modi to gain support from Hindu majority and regain the lost ground in Kashmir.
- Tourism and Image Management: the Pahalgam attack is damaging the India’s image in terms of security, but the harsh response serves as proof that will not be lenient on security issues in order to restore the trust of tourist and investors.
- Geopolitical Signaling: India wants to assert itself as a regional hegemon, showcasing military strength and an uncompromising stance on security to solidify its dominance in
Pakistan offered an independent investigation with the assistance of neutral states, which India refused
Pakistan’s response was measured and justifiable. Following the meeting of the National Security Council, Islamabad warned that any attempt to block water would be considered – an act of war. Pakistan also called the Pahalgam attack – a false flag operation by India. Additionally, Pakistan offered an independent investigation with the assistance of neutral states, which India refused. India’s refusal to accept this investigation casts further doubt and strengthens Pakistan diplomatically.
“An eye for an eye will make the whole world blind.”
In conclusion, India must undertake a greater responsibility in maintaining peace in the region and should take sincere diplomatic initiatives to move forward. The ongoing cycle of blame and retaliation must come to an end. Peace in South Asia should not be sacrificed for political gains or emotional nationalism. As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said, “An eye for an eye will make the whole world blind.” It is time for both nations to choose dialogue over conflict and cooperation over hostility for the greater good of their people and the region.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.
