THE question of Kashmir is once again upon us.
It all started with a detailed briefing by a senior official two weeks back in which he confirmed and then elaborated upon the process of backchannel talks taking place between Pakistan and India. As reported in this newspaper on April 25, the official argued that it was time for Pakistan to take a ‘strategic pause’ and review prospects of peace in the region. This, he said, was essential if Pakistan wanted to focus on fixing its domestic problems and prioritising economic development.
As was expected, the publication of the Dawn report detailing the contours of this rethink about a paradigm shift in relations with India triggered a fierce debate on all media platforms. Subject specialists, experienced and well-respected retired diplomats as well as academics and journalists, all dived into the debate armed with a potent arsenal of arguments. The sparring centred on a central point of contention: is it wise for Pakistan to be discussing options of resolving the Kashmir issue with India when India has not indicated any willingness to move away from its position?