OPINION: India, Pakistan should resolve their disputes for peace in the region

pak-protest-ap Pakistani protesters burn an effigy of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an anti-Indian rally in Peshawar, Pakistan, Thursday | AP

The situation between India and Pakistan is quite tense. Pulwama attack seems to have been the straw that broke the camel's back when it comes to the India-Pakistan relationship. Post the Pulwama attack, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF soldiers, India issued a statement declaring that Pakistan was responsible for the attack. Pakistan has strongly denied these allegations. Indians were visibly angry and sad. But meanwhile in Pakistan, 'PSL fever' and 'Laal Tamater' were trending.

Shahbaz Ali Shahbaz Ali

Attributing the situation to the upcoming elections in India, many on social media said that India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was doing everything he can to save his fallen credibility. Questions were asked on both sides about the ammunitions and their quantity despite the security in Kashmir.

The situation worsened further when Indian Air Force attacked Pakistan on February 26 after crossing the Line of Control. This attack has been strongly condemned by every section of society. Even Pakistan's current government and opposition are on the same page on this matter. Everyone believes that the Indian government should find a solution by communicating with the Kashmiri people instead of blaming Pakistan.

The situation could get serious and worse every passing day. Pakistani ministers for foreign affairs and defense issued official policy statements of the government. The government also called for joint parliament session of the two houses wherein opposition objected to Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's guest of honour participation in the upcoming session of OIC. Pakistani military spokesman also held a press conference and warned India to be ready for consequences. Prime Minister Imran Khan has asked the nation and the army to be prepared for any situation.

Majority of Pakistanis desire peace as the country has faced terrorism for several years due to which thousands of civilians and armed forces personnel have lost their lives. The people, worried about the current situation, say that both countries should sit together and resolve their disputes for stability and peace to reign in the area.

Since its formation, the current government of Pakistan has been facing financial crises. In this situation, war talks are a real problem. The young generation is not happy with the situation.

People feel that for the last 70 years, both countries have attacked each other, blamed each other, but there is no plan or policy for peace in the region.

For the peace and stability in the region, political and military leaderships must avoid hard statements against each other. India and Pakistan should think and adopt a comprehensive joint plan for peace in the area. Cricket diplomacy, film industry and mutual trade should be encouraged. The international community and the United Nations too should play their role in resolving the matter.

Ali is a freelance journalist from Pakistan