Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'Stop war, make peace' that was published in Newsband

Stop war, make peace

India and Pakistan had agreed to the ceasefire along the Line of Control nearly a decade ago. This had brought real improvement to the lives of people living along both sides of the LoC. It had stopped the frequent exchange of artillery killings in “cross-LoC firing”. But this agreement has also been repeatedly violated and jeopardized. It is alleged that Pakistani troops brazenly crossed the LoC and killed two Indian soldiers. Pakistan denied this allegation. Pakistan alleged that earlier India had crossed into its side of the border and that one of its soldiers was killed in the attack; India claims its troops undertook “controlled retaliation” to unprovoked firing from the Pakistan side.

The above incidents prove that despite better ties on several fronts, relations between the two countries remain vulnerable to the slightest provocation. It is clear that these two incidents are linked to local-level tensions. The fact is there have been 72 incidents just in the last 13 months, the highest in recent years.

This, being the 10th year of the ceasefire, it is the right time for the two militaries to explore ways of strengthening the agreement, and perhaps, to consider ramping up their level of interaction. The above incidents are serious ones. India has been right in making a strong diplomatic protest, but it should ensure that the bad blood over this does not affect the progress in other areas of bilateral relations.

The stained relationships between India and Pakistan have been stumbling blocks in the march for progress. While our nation has always extended its hand for friendly ties, the response from the neighbour has been poor. It is time Pakistan wakes up to the reality that such violations like those mentioned above can dent the peace intended dialogue. The recent Cricket matches are proof enough that India is more than willing to understand.

It's time now for a steady serious and meaningful dialogue to ensure peace between the two nations.