Fighting the enemy within

According a ToI survey, 26% of Indians believe that a war on Pakistan is the way to be for India. Bal Thackeray, Shiv Sena chief had also spoken about "iron to attack Pakistan". Most of us today have a face to our enemy or at least a geography to our enemy. It is Pakistan. It is Al qaeda, Lashkar e Toiba, Zardari, Geelani, Kiyani and others in the Pakistani leadership. I truly believe that this is misplaced Jingoism.

That there is threat to our nation is a gospel truth. However, is it just Pakistan and a bunch of religious islamic bigots? A bunch of gunmen blinded by religious zeal, will never threaten history. A nation's history is made by its economic, social and cultural developments and conquests. In this respect, there are those within India, who we call elected leaders of the masses who have greater impact on the way this nation proceeds in future. Amongst this group, there are few who have an agenda and lead on that basis. Unfortunately there are more who have no agenda and lead on the basis of caste, community or simply corruption. The Mayawatis, Amar Singhs, Shibu Sorens, Raj Thackerays and A R Antulays of the world have more profound impact on the nation than terrorists. It sometimes occurs to me that Sheila Dixits win at the Delhi elections was a true and significant one in terms of economic developmental projects winning over divisive vote bank politics. These internal demons are the more difficult ones to fight and win against!

As far as Pakistan is concerned, i believe that the diplomatic offensive launched by India is the best strike. By alienating and isolating Pakistan, India would and could resolve the issue is a far better manner than an all out aggressive incursion into enemy territory. Already, Barrack Obama has sounded of his views on "aid" to Pakistan against results! Economic sanctions and trade restrictions are far more advanced weapons of war than we think them to be.