Kathmandu, a friend with benefits
Most people may not agree. Some may even find it to be a bizarre comparison. But, having lived in Nepal and observed Kashmir for a long time, I find few strange similarities in Delhi’s handling of the two issues.
In Nepal it is said that every Rs 2 spent out of Rs 3 is of Indian origin. This ranges from Army pension, aid, tourism, and above all (let us call it, for the lack of a better term) political philanthropy. One would not be very much off the mark in thinking much of Kashmir’s GDP comes from mainland Indian taxpayer money, directly or indirectly.
Ironically, from both places New Delhi gets very little in return except loads of ingratitude.
The argument has similar undertones. In Nepal it’s the constant assertion of its sovereignty and fear mongering about India’s hegemonistic designs. The refrain in Kashmir is about self-determination and “Azadi”.
Both in Kashmir and Kathmandu some political dynasties are said to have allegedly amassed fortunes on Delhi’s largesse. At both places is a veritable eco-system that runs on dole from various Indian agencies.
It is often jokingly said Kathmandu is, perhaps, the only national capital where the Indian Ambassador wields as much influence as his American counterpart in the rest of the world. But, invitations to daily cocktails and receptions notwithstanding, the Indian envoys are generally not the most popular.
There is a difference between being sought after and liked, as we all know. One of them used to jokingly say, “I put up with all the abuses hurled at me in the morning newspapers only because of the lovely Kathmandu weather”. I suspect the Governor of Jammu & Kashmir might, if asked, say something on a similar vein.
Do we see signs of things changing, even if a bit? For Nepal , India’s foreign office stayed the course even at the face of mounting criticism at home of Modi’s neighbourhood policy. The results are now for everyone to see. In Kashmir, one is sensing a similar clarity of purpose, not allowing the surround sound of “doves and liberals” distract the Union Government from its strategic course.
What’s most interesting is the fault line that has developed in the national media with a new ‘nationalist’ block coming down heavily against those they feel are acting against India’s interest by romanticising the Kashmir issue. The latter had no qualms in comparing Burhan Wani to a freedom fighter, a la Bhagat Singh, and take exception to him being labeled as a “secessionist”.
Does that mean New Delhi has discovered the missing key to enter the twin paradise of Kashmir and the Himalayas?
Sadly, there is no master key in the world of geopolitics. Neither Mehbooba nor Prachanda will be unflinching allies. They have their own political compulsions to deal with at home. Both will play their own games.
Going forward, there will be pitfalls, traps and setbacks to be negotiated and manoeuvred around. Strategy has to be continuously reviewed and recalibrated. However, the need of the hour is firm resolve and consistency.
A story is attributed to one of the more successful Indian envoys in Kathmandu. It seems a certain politician told him, “I don’t trust you”. Our man retorted: “What is your ‘price’ for trust?” The belligerent politician got the message — that this Ambassador meant business.
Those who feel the Modi Government cannot ever do anything right were quick to write the obituary for his “neighbour first” policy. They mocked his visit to Pashupati as much as his stopover in Lahore. It is time for them to realise the hand that one extends for friendship need not always be soft. A firm handshake is much better than limp holding of hands.
“Friends with benefits”, as they say in relationship parlance these days, could well be one of the tenets of South Block’s policy towards Nepal and Kashmir as well.
Post Script: What is the similarity between Prachanda and Arvind Kejriwal? One thought and the other thinks — New Delhi wants to kill them. (And that is not to suggest both are or were Maoists or Anarchists)
The author is a marketer, writer and blogger who views life from a Right Angle. Opinions expressed are his own and not that of his employers. Follow him on Twitter @SandipGhose
Originally published at www.abplive.in on July 28, 2016.
