Okay – it’s time to take off the velvet gloves. I have, in previous posts, always advocated moderation, taking a deep breath and a bit of balance in or response to our western neighbour.

Unfortunately, Pakistan is as burdened with bad leadership as India is. They are more scared of facing the truth of the growing anarchy and terror inside their own boundaries than they are of facing down India. Worse for both the countries, the Pakistani army has more influence than their Indian counterparts, in the day to day running of the country.

So, is it time for war?

Firstly, let me assure you, despite all the moderation I have been advocating in my older posts, both through my articles as well as my comments, I am not an unreasoning pacifist. I am one who believes that armed force is not something to be undertaken lightly, on the spur of the moment.

Secondly, I still think that a shooting war is not the answer… Wait, I can hear all of those groans and desk-thumping. Wait – I am not saying that we should do nothing. In fact, I am saying that we should do something far more effective than war.

Have you seen the political mood in the world now? Just let me summarise it briefly – those parts that we need in India’s favour.

1) The USA and the West in general are very much upset with Pakistan and at the same time are in a situation where they find themselves hamstrung financially.
2) China, for the first time, has gone along with the Indian demands of banning terror organisations in Pakistan.
3) Pakistan is practically broke, running around the world with begging bowl.
4) Our ties with Afghanistan and Iran are excellent, with the former not at all pleased with Pakistan.
5) The Taliban has declared support to Pakistan.

Of course, there are more factors I can add to the above. But, for my purpose, this will suffice.

So what should we do?

Firstly, break all diplomatic relations with Pakistan. Surprisingly enough, we still have not done that!

Secondly, make sure that we reconcile urgent differences with China, including a non-interference agreement.

Thirdly, strengthen our Navy presence in the Arabian Sea, with stronger support from the Western and Southern commands of the Air Force.  After all, the Mumbai attacks came from the sea and we are within our rights to control the traffic on that shore. If we happen to interrupt any Pakistani commerce, that will only be incidental.

Fourthly, make sure that the Gulf States (especially Saudi Arabia) understand that we will not be pleased if their funding of Pakistani institutions continues.

Fifth, ask Afghanistan and Iran to cooperate in making sure that no help reaches the Talibani forces through their countries.

Finally, and most importantly, make sure that Pakistan does not receive any financial aid in the near future, or till they acknowledge and take action against the terror elements in their midst, whether institutional or otherwise.

Will these measures work?

I am not sure. I am nothing more than an armchair diplomat. But, I can say this; these measures will surely hurt more than a shooting war. After actual armed conflict, once the hostilities are ended (probably within days), Pakistan will be able to get more help from outside to rebuild. With economic and diplomatic measures, no one will be able to say that India was an aggressor. Also, it will be harder for countries like Saudi Arabia and China to justify increases in funding or help.

What will be the reaction(s)?

Well, there will certainly be a loud hue and cry about it from Pakistan. If we can keep China placated, we should be okay. The US and Europe will wag their fingers at us – but will not do anything, as they themselves are tired of the whole mess in Pakistan.

There is a very good chance though, that these measures will be a fuse. It will probably enthuse more ‘fidayeen’ to attack India.

The Pak army will certainly want to take direct action. In fact, that would almost certainly happen. So, in the end, it may end in a shooting war after all – but at least then we will be totally justified to defend ourselves and finish the task once and for all.

What task? The complete destruction of all terror infrastructure in that country. If we do a pre-emptive strike, we will have to leave it half-done.

What I say is, if we are going after the hornet’s nest, make sure that it is full burnt – or we will be stung.

One last word…

Will all these happen? Of course not – because our ‘leaders’ have their hands stuck in some deep part of their anatomy. My solution is just speculation – our ‘leaders’ do not have time to even speculate. After all, the parliamentary elections are coming – and what is more important than that?