Resolve, not bravado, will help

Apropos of ‘How to solve a problem like Pakistan’ (The Great Game); a befitting response to the Pahalgam terror attack is India’s toughest test — how to deal with a belligerent Pakistan without sparking a wider conflict. The killing of civilians in Kashmir signals a paradigm shift as Islamabad has escalated tensions both diplomatically and militarily. Moreover, the West’s feeble calls for restraint and China’s studied indifference only compound India’s dilemma. PM Modi must now assert India’s resolve; mere rhetorical bravado will not help. His legacy will depend on whether he can deter aggression while reassuring the world that India stands firm but responsible.

Amarjeet Mann, Una

Deterrence the only solution

Refer to ‘How to solve a problem like Pakistan’; the option of dialogue should always be kept open even for the most intractable enemies, but the key to achieving lasting peace with a contentious neighbour like Pakistan lies in establishing a policy of credible military deterrence. It has two major aspects: the ability to strike long-range enemy targets with precision, and an effective defence mechanism against enemy missiles and drones. India needs to invest in capabilities such as an ultra high-tech air defence system like Israel’s ‘iron dome’, which can offer protection against multiple attacks. Though India has acquired the Russian S-400 missile system, a long-term plan involving significant investments need to be executed to increase air defence capability.

Chander Shekhar Dogra, Jalandhar

Kashmiris need to choose

Kashmir, which saw a footfall of over 2 crore last year, has witnessed many sacrifices by the Kashmiri people and security forces in staving off violence. Still, a lot needs to be done. Currently, the only faultline impeding peace is the marginally existent local support to terrorists. Terrorism can be eradicated from the soil of Kashmir if local residents undertake a vow not to cooperate with terrorists. They need to wholeheartedly assist the police and security forces. The ball is in the court of Kashmiris, whether they want misery or prosperity.

Ravi Bhushan, Kurukshetra

Himanshi’s fervent appeal

With reference to ‘Voice of sanity’; despite being in mourning, the young wife of the slain naval officer has shown a big heart and great courage by making a fervent appeal that Muslims and Kashmiris should not be targeted for the inhuman act of the Baisaran terrorists. Prima facie, the massacre of tourists on religious lines was aimed at widening the Hindu-Muslim divide. After the incident, the tempers are running high across the nation to bring the perpetrators of the heinous crime and their supporters to justice. Nevertheless, these elements have not been able to whip up communal frenzy, thanks to people like the widowed Himanshi Narwal.

Nirmaljit Singh Chatrath, Kapurthala

United India can confront Pak

Apropos of ‘Voice of sanity’; Pakistan has been harming Indian interests for nearly eight decades now. Every time, the response to terror attacks has been limited to a particular incident. The ISI and the Pakistan army are the culprits. Any hateful or violent acts against a particular community will be detrimental to India’s interests. Himanshi Narwal has very aptly sent a message that no Muslim or Kashmiri should be targeted, but the perpetrators of the massacre must be hunted down. Only a united India can wreck the Pakistan deep state’s tactics comprehensively.

Subhash Vaid, New Delhi

Panel to solve water stalemate

The water standoff between Punjab and Haryana is escalating. The Bhakra Beas Management Board seems to have proved ineffective in resolving the issue as Punjab is feeling deprived of its rightful share. Haryana is asking for more water despite having received its authorised share. With water already deficient in Punjab, the state is helpless to share it with others. It is time to establish an independent, impartial committee with representatives from both states to redraft past agreements and distribute water on a pro-rata basis to end the bitter impasse.

RS Narula, Patiala

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