India's refusal to attend the SAARC summit, scheduled to be held in Islamabad in November, could spell the death knell for the regional bloc which has already outlived its utility. With Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan also skipping the summit, the number of countries staying away in the eight-member bloc is four; this puts Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives in a difficult situation.
While Afghanistan is furious at cross-border attacks against its army by people allegedly from Pakistan, Bangladesh is upset with Pakistani support to radical elements in that country.
It is apparent the present scenario is Pakistan's own making. Unless it mends its ways it will soon find itself isolated.
N J Ravi Chander, Bengaluru
Letters can be mailed, faxed or e-mailed to:
The Editor, Business Standard
Nehru House, 4 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg
New Delhi 110 002
Fax: (011) 23720201
E-mail: letters@bsmail.in
All letters must have a postal address and telephone number
