A working doctrine

It is wrong to mistake debate over nuclear doctrine for a change in India's position

Shakaal and Gabbar have a long-running feud. They nurse grievances against each other but would like to avoid fighting as they won’t be able to avoid getting hurt. Since misunderstandings can cause minor incidents to inadvertently escalate into big, bloody fights, one day Shakaal puts up posters around town proclaiming that his gang will not attack Gabbar’s first, but will go all out if attacked. 

Now put yourself in Gabbar’s shoes? How seriously will you take Shakaal’s solemn promise? 

Talk is cheap, and the only thing that backs Shakaal’s verbal commitment is his desire to avoid getting hurt. You can never rule