Tensions between Pakistan and India have been growing after the Bombay attacks. Are we close to a military escalation?
In spite of vociferous demands by the Indian public, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government has withstood the pressure to conduct cross-border strikes into Pakistan. Correspondingly, in spite of the bitter criticism by Islamic parties, Pakistan's government has taken some action against the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), the jihadist organisation that is quite probably behind the attacks. Pakistan has refused India's request for extradition but, in spite of that, the tension has eased somewhat. One fears, however, that another attack could push India over the fence.
What makes the LeT so different from other militant groups? Is Pakistan really moving against it?
LeT, one of the largest militant groups in Pakistan, was established over 15 years ago. It was supported by the Pakistani military and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) because it focussed upon fighting Indian rule in Muslim Kashmir. Today it is one of the very few extremist groups that does not attack the military and ISI; in contrast almost all others have turned into fierce enemies. Time will tell if the current move against the LeT is serious. If serious, then the Army and ISI will have earned the bitter enmity of yet another former ally. They dread repeating their experience with the Jaish-e-Muhammad, another militant group they formerly supported. Jaish is now responsible for extreme brutalities, including torture and decapitation of Pakistani soldiers captured in FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas).
How have Pakistanis reacted to the Bombay attacks?
The initial reaction was of sympathy. I did not see any celebrations, contrary to those I saw after 9/11. But as the Indian TV channels started accusing Pakistan and demanding military retaliation, the reaction turned to anger and then flat denial – Pakistanis did not want to accept that this attack was done by Pakistanis or had been launched from Pakistani soil. Subsequently, one saw amazing mental gymnastics by popular TV anchors, and their guests. It is sad to see intelligent persons losing their marbles.
