The Hindu : Treading cautiously

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Tuesday, May 13, 2003

Opinion

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Treading cautiously

Sir, — Though the visit of the Pakistani Parliamentary delegation and its interaction with several political parties and intellectuals does not by itself mean the beginning of a thaw in Indo-Pak. relations, it has certainly provided an opportunity for the people on both sides to understand each other well. It was discernible from their discussions that they equally yearn for peace.

It is unfortunate that the ruling parties wanted to tread so cautiously that they showed no interest in talking to the delegation. This does not make any sense and goes against our tradition of treating our guests with honour and love.

Himanshu Kumar Singh,

New Delhi

* * *

Sir, — Prabhakara Rao has hit the nail on the head in his letter `Ties with Pakistan' ( May 10 ). One cannot expect genuine peace in South Asia unless the people of Pakistan feel that they and the Muslims in India are safe. Defeating fascism in India is, therefore, very important. Unlike in pre-1947 Punjab where near complete ethnic cleansing took place on both sides of the border, north Indian Muslims were divided in two separate countries. The separated families need to travel frequently between India and Pakistan. Hence rail and road travel between the two countries needs to be not only restored but considerably strengthened as this is the only affordable mode of travel for ordinary Muslims. Trading links on the rail-road routes also need to be expanded in the era of viable globalisation. This is the surest route to peace in South Asia.

Harkishan Singh Mehta,

Chandigarh

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Sir, — I think Atal Behari Vajpayee is doing an admirable job as regards Pakistan. Many spoke about the futility of the aggressive posturing and Army movements on the border. However, we are beginning to see the fruits of all that labour.

We are talking to Pakistan from a position of strength. This is what a powerful nation is all about — speak softly but always carry a big stick.

Bharatram Gaba,

Mumbai

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Sir, — This refers to the article "Vajpayee's last push for peace" by Karl F. Inderfurth ( May 6 ). The Prime Minister has initiated some comprehensive measures to bring about normal relations with Pakistan. All encouragement must be extended to Mr. Vajpayee from all quarters. Since India and Pakistan now wish for peace, cynical politicking must be eschewed to break fresh ground.

Edmund Vessaoker,

Navi Mumbai

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