Isn't is ironical that Pakistan's former foreign minister grabs headlines when he launches a book in Mumbai, the city that witnessed the 26/11 attack ? Not only that, he manages the moral high ground thanks to Shiv Sena's black paint smear on Sudheendra Kulkarni.
Khurshid Mahmud Kasuri in the press conference explained that he has written about the possibility of peace between India and Pakistan and how they should have dialogue and sort things out'. He plays innocent to the core and has named his book "Neither a Hawk nor a Dove".
But, one wonders, why do ministers, bureaucrats, army chiefs and politicians write or talk peace when they retire? Why is it that they suddenly realize that peace is possible between countries when they leave office, are in exile, have left politics or have become politically irrelevant?
Clearly they use the Indo-Pak issue to come back in the news or grab attention. Bereft of limelight they suddenly throw light on something they know everyone desires. Sadly, when in office they follow the opposite line of thought.
Isn't it clear that the Indo-Pak rivalry or clash is the result of politics and politicians interest?
Isn't it clear that the citizens of both countries want friendly relations and development for the subcontinent?
Isn't it clear that peace is possible between the countries provided the politicians, armies, bureaucrats want it!
Kasuri's book is another example of the fact that the politicians of both the countries know that peace is possible if the high commands of both sides want it. There are elements who do not want that issues between the neighbours resolved; because it keeps them relevant.
[Anupam Sharma Rao is an independent journalist who has worked with various TV news channels in India. The opinions are hers and do not necessarily represent the views of IBTimes India.]
