C Raja Mohan argues that India must shift its focus from bilateral relations with Pakistan to the significant developments along Pakistan’s borders with Afghanistan. The article discusses the implications of the recent Pashtun Qaumi Jirga, the challenges posed by the Taliban’s resurgence, and the growing nationalist sentiments among the Pashtun and Baloch populations. These factors suggest that the instability in Pakistan may have profound impacts on India’s foreign policy and regional dynamics moving forward.
In recent discourse surrounding India-Pakistan relations, significant developments occurring along the Indo-Pak border, specifically concerning Afghanistan, have been largely overlooked. A recent event, the Pashtun Qaumi Jirga held in Jamrud, Khyber district, may be more indicative of future geopolitical shifts than the anticipated interactions between Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and his Pakistani counterparts. India’s engagement with Pakistan is characterized by considerable enthusiasm and concern, yet the outcomes of such interactions often do not reflect the prevailing hype. Jaishankar’s visit to Islamabad marks the first by an Indian Foreign Minister in ten years, creating expectations for possible improvements in a relationship that has seen countless diplomatic efforts yield minimal results. Despite the hopes of positive dialogue, the long-standing complexities of Indo-Pak relations remain largely unchanged. The focus on this visit detracts from more pressing issues resulting from the historical tensions along Pakistan’s western borders. The geopolitical landscape has dramatically evolved post-1979 following two pivotal events—the Iranian Revolution and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan—each contributing to the emergence of Islamic militancy that has reshaped regional dynamics. The ascendance of the Taliban and the current challenges faced by the Pashtun populace, straddling the Durand Line, underscore the pressures Pakistan faces today. The Taliban’s rise has thwarted Islamabad’s ambitions of controlling Afghanistan, leading to rising autonomy demands from the Pashtun ethnic group and accusations against Kabul for harboring the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Additionally, the recent banning of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) only exacerbates grievances that demand urgent attention, such as the reclaimed rights to their resources and regional stability. This turmoil is compounded by the resurgence of nationalism among Baloch populations, adding further strain to Pakistan’s stability. Given these developments, the intricate relationships between various groups along the border may result in significant repercussions for India and the broader region, implying that the dynamics at play in Pakistan’s western frontier will likely influence bilateral relations moving forward.
C Raja Mohan’s article emphasizes the need for India to pay attention to the evolving situation along its border with Pakistan and Afghanistan. He highlights the historical context of conflicts and the impact of internal divisions in Pakistan, particularly focusing on the Pashtun and Baloch regions that have witnessed significant unrest and a rise in nationalism. The article calls for a recognition of these internal dynamics as they relate to regional stability and Indian foreign policy.
The complexities of the situation along Pakistan’s western borders signify an urgent need for India to reevaluate its diplomatic focus. As regional tensions continue to unfold, understanding the internal political realities faced by Pakistan is crucial. The resurgence of nationalist sentiments and ongoing political challenges within Pakistan could redefine the geopolitical landscape and influence India-Pakistan relations, necessitating a strategic approach from Indian policymakers that considers these emerging factors.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
