GS2 (International relations)
The recent surgical strikes by India in PoK mark a watershed moment in India’s Pakistan policy. Critically comment.
Best answer
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India and Pakistan have been fighting over Kashmir since the Independence in 1947. The two countries have not been able to come to a conclusion and this causes huge problems for people. Surgical strikes means limited penetration in foreign territory to attack specifically identified targets without any other collateral damage. Recently, Indian troops performed surgical strikes at 7 points in border areas of J&K to attack terrorist launch pads.
– India has always avoided confrontation and escalation of issues.
– Indian government sought cooperation from Pakistan government to curb terrorism in the region
– After the Mumbai attack and Pathankot attack recently, Government seemed investigation from Pakistan government and provided them with evidence
– Surgical strikes were done even in past but they were not publicised and accepted at international level
However, recent changes in government policy towards Pakistan marks big shift
– DGMO and government announced the strikes as soon as they were completed and contacted Pakistan DGMO
– India seemed international support and summoned the diplomats from various countries to brief them on surgical strikes
– India has tried to isolate Pakistan in international community i.e. G20, ASEAN+, UN etc.
– It was explicitly declared after the strikes that the operation was completed and the Indian side do not seek any escalation
These public declarations are a major shift and ensure that the international community knows about happenings. This policy of isolation will have to be supported with more diplomatic measures and cautious military action without escalating the situation to war.
