Prominent world leaders have called for India-Pakistan talks to resolve their bilateral issues, including the killing of five soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir.
It is unfortunate the opposition BJP is politicizing a serious national security issue and whipping up communal tension.
It is also heartening to note that Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has sought to assuage feelings in India by expressing sadness over the recent incidents on the Line of Control and loss of precious human lives.
The BJP has been adopting double standards on vital national matters to gain political mileage.
While the BJP takes a tough stand on issues concerning Pakistan, it dillydallies on violence on India’s borders with China or Sri Lanka.
It has been alleged by politicians in the southern state of Tamil Nadu that actions of Sri Lankan Navy are threatening the livelihood of Indian fishermen.
Some Indian fishermen have lost their lives. Some fishermen are languishing in Sri Lankan jails.
Politicians and bureaucrats in the South Asia should work with the common goal of achieving prosperity for citizens of countries such as Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan.
At the same time, Indian security forces should take meaningful measures to protect people from foreign elements seeking to fuel communal or sectarian emotions. The grievances of Tamil fishermen in south India need immediate attention from authorities in New Delhi. Violence on Palk Straits should not be encouraged.
South Asian newspapers and TV channels need to act responsibly at this crucial juncture.
We are confident that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will ensure peace and stability in the region without succumbing to extremist pressures.
India, Pakistan and China played a critical role in the final stages of Sri Lanka’s war on terrorism in 2009. Their support helped Sri Lanka to defeat separatists.
These three countries should now prevail on the Sri Lankan government to speed up political reconciliation.
There has also been some concern over Buddhist extremist forces reportedly threatening the interests of Muslim traders and civilians.
The people in South Asia must renounce ethnic or communal hatred to protect the interests of future generations. — Nadesan, Chennai
South Asian leaders must show patience
