In the aftermath of the recent Pahalgam incident, once again, fingers have been pointed towards Pakistan without substantial evidence. India’s immediate allegations against Pakistan follow a familiar pattern, much like previous instances in 2008, 2011, Uri, and Pulwama. These accusations are not new; they are part of a recurring narrative that India has long used to malign Pakistan’s image internationally. However, Pakistan has always responded with responsibility and dignity, as was evident in 2019 when Pakistan captured Indian pilot Abhinandan after India’s violation of Pakistan’s airspace, only to release him shortly after as a peace gesture.
This time, too, India has acted hastily. Without waiting for a fair and thorough investigation, it has once again leveled baseless accusations against Pakistan. In response, Pakistan has strongly denied involvement and condemned the attack. The Pakistani government has emphasized that blame games will only further strain relations and regional peace. The double standards are evident-when terrorist attacks occur in Balochistan, or insurgencies arise in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, or even during the recent attack on the Quetta-bound Jaffar Express, India suggests Pakistan should conduct a fair investigation. But when any incident occurs in India or Jammu and Kashmir, even something as small as an anthill being disturbed, India is quick to blame Pakistan.
The timing of the Pahalgam attack raises critical questions. It happened when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a visit to Saudi Arabia and U.S. Senator JD Vance was in India. The incident has provided India with a platform to push its agenda against Pakistan, using it as leverage in front of international stakeholders. It reflects a clear strategy of political opportunism, where domestic tragedies are used to serve diplomatic narratives.
In its recent reaction, India has taken several harsh measures: suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, downgrading diplomatic relations, canceling visas of Pakistani citizens, and sealing the Attari-Wagah border. The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty is particularly alarming. The treaty, signed in 1960 with the mediation of the World Bank, is a symbol of cooperation over shared resources. It has withstood wars and tensions. India’s attempt to dismantle it unilaterally is not only irresponsible but also a violation of international agreements. There is a misconception in India that the treaty benefits only Pakistan, while in reality, it ensures stability and fair water distribution in the region. Blocking Pakistan’s water would be a severe humanitarian issue and is practically unfeasible under international law.
Pakistan believes that it is time to respond to Indian aggression with clarity and strength. Diplomatically, Pakistan must present its case at international forums and highlight India’s continued attempts to politicize cross-border incidents. Strategically, Pakistan should prepare for any misadventure, as the Pakistani leadership has already made it clear: if India attempts any aggressive action, it must be ready to face the consequences.
It Is also important to note how the Indian media plays a role in escalating tensions. War hysteria is regularly propagated through Indian news channels, fueling nationalist sentiments and pushing for confrontation instead of dialogue. When Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir delivers a speech emphasizing national security or defense readiness, India reacts strongly, unable to tolerate Pakistan’s internal stance. This hypocrisy must be called out.
Pakistan does not seek confrontation. It seeks peace, cooperation, and regional stability. But peace cannot be one-sided. It requires mutual respect, dialogue, and above all, fairness. India’s current actions-diplomatic downgrades, treaty suspensions, and media warfare-are all designed to isolate Pakistan, a tactic they have tried and failed at in the past.
In conclusion, Pakistan must adopt a proactive stance. It should continue its diplomatic outreach, strengthen internal unity, and stay prepared to counter any threats. India should be reminded that aggressive posturing and blaming Pakistan for every incident will not bring peace. Real peace will come when both nations agree to resolve issues through dialogue, not through accusations. Until then, Pakistan stands firm-ready for peace, but not afraid of confrontation.
