And unless the hard issues are raised and addressed, nothing can come out. There have been dialogues earlier also, but what is the reason that both parties meet and leave without reaching a consensus or without at least coming out with a concrete plan of action, writes Sheikh Sanaullah.

This refers to resumption of talks between India and Pakistan to sort-out all issues including Kashmir. When the news hit the headlines, people began to speculate the outcome of the talks. The talks generated a new hope among the people because India was adamant not to talk to Pakistan unless Mumbai culprits were booked. How did India then agree for talks? It is evident USA must have ringed the alarm, obviously for her own interests. But after a short duration the hope began to vanish. This is precisely because of the contradictory statements issued by the Indian Home Minister, External Affairs Minister and the Army Chief regarding the talks’ agenda. The catchwords began to resonate: “talks will be focused on terrorism and Kashmir is Atoot Aung of India.” If it is so, then what for is the composite dialogue? What is its objective when the core issue of Kashmir, on which peace hinges, is not addressed? The Government of India floats confusing statements for its ‘safe-exit’ as and when need arises. This duplicity raises a question on the success of talks and the sincerity of India toward the dialogue. People swallow all this as a bitter pill. But yes, issuing press notes that normalcy is back in Kashmir is a blatant lie. Kashmir is a place where justice is trampled, voices of dissent muzzled, and perpetrators never punished. How long can India shut its eyes to these ground realities? The issue needs be addressed effectively before it goes out of control. The composite dialogue should be result-oriented; otherwise it is a futile exercise. Pakistan needs to reshape its foreign policy. It cannot project its just cause effectively. It should gear up its efforts to ensure the participation of the representatives of Kashmir in the composite dialogue. Hurriyat leaders should resolve their differences and fight for a common goal.

Lastupdate on : Mon, 1 Mar 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Mon, 1 Mar 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:00 IST