It will be a serious mistake if the government or the people of India take any step to destroy the fragile relationship with Pakistan after the recent terrorist attacks in Mumbai. It is possible that some fanatical groups could have sponsored or supported this violence. It is highly unlikely that the government of President Zardari would support this attack. He himself is weak politically, and is not necessarily very strong with the military elite.
Indian and Pakistan have had a violent past, but have made serious attempts to make peace. There are significant economic benefits if these two countries can ensure peace.
Maintaining peace will not be easy for there is tremendous anger and hatred about the loss of life in Mumbai. However, these are testing times, when sagacity and character is called for.
Pakistan is going through a very difficult time economically. Its foreign exchange reserves are down to about $6-7 billion, which leaves it with money to pay its import bills for just a couple of months. Pakistan has sought money from the IMF and friendly neighbouring countries to make ends meet. Pakistan has also been ravaged by terrorism and problems with the Taliban. If Pakistan and India misunderstand each other and stop talking to each other, the terrorists would have achieved their goal, i.e. of damaging the peace process between these countries.
Terrorists are criminals and have no religion or ideology, except death and destruction. They have to be tackled at an international level. India and Pakistan must join hands to get rid of this virus. There are enough fundamental groups in both countries who can use the current situation to their political advantage. We should strengthen defences against terrorists, and continue the process of concretising solutions to pending problems for a lasting peace. This is a time for wisdom and statesmanship.
Rajendra Aneja, Dubai