It is not all bad between India and Pakistan
This article explores the historical context of India-Pakistan relations, noting that despite three wars, both nations have historically shown restraint regarding civilian targets. It suggests that while current tensions and terrorism hinder dialogue, there is a historical precedent for cooperation that could be revisited.
Why it matters
It provides a nuanced historical perspective on a volatile geopolitical relationship, challenging the narrative that total conflict is the only historical reality.
Ever since a letter written by 117 eminent Pakistanis and Indians emerged in the public domain, an acrimonious debate has begun on whether India should reopen dialogue with its neighbour, with most pointing to the inability of Pakistan to ever live peacefully with India. While this is understandable in the aftermath of the Pahalgam horror (2025), the fact remains that India and Pakistan have, on many occasions, shown far greater circumspection than their western counterparts and have also quietly cooperated to a surprising degree. Clearly, there is potential for cooperation. Equally, however, this potential has been hit progressively harder by terrorism.
The piece attempts a balanced historical analysis, though it touches on sensitive geopolitical topics that are inherently subjective.
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