The People Next Door
(The Curious History of India’s Relations with Pakistan)
(The Curious History of India’s Relations with Pakistan)
by : TCA Raghavan
In this eminently readable book Raghavan (a career diplomat and India’s former High Commissioner to Pakistan), gives a ring side view of the history of the tangled relations between the two countries.
As is made clear by the author in the introduction itself, this is a ‘history’ and not a ‘policy’ book. Hence it recounts the various phases of the relationship chronologically and brings out the roles played by various actors, specially the political and diplomatic establishments of the time. It does not make suggestions or give prescriptions.
As one reads through, one is struck by the cyclical pattern in the diplomatic efforts. Most political heads on either side, in the initial part of their respective tenures in office, have tried to work on improving the relationship despite being handcuffed by historical baggage, mutual mistrust and of course public opinions. Sooner or later setbacks like wars, events and incidents take place which force a stoppage or a course reversal. But after things settle down the thread is again picked up and another diplomatic dialogue reinitiated in the modified context. The see saw battles and discussions continue. Giving up has never been a long term option for either country.
Raghavan does justice to the word ‘curious’ in the sub-title, by drawing out the unusual nature of this history.
For instance, did you know that Kutch Ceasefire Agreement in 1965 was signed for India by Azim Husain, secretary MEA with his brother-in-law and cousin Mian Arshad Hussain signing on behalf of Pakistan. Incidentally Azim Hussain had gone against the trend of migration at the time of partition and moved from West Punjab to India despite being a Muslim leaving his family behind.
Generally speaking, in the initial decades the interlocutors were people who had personal experience and/or relationships on the other side of border, either directly or through their political families. This gave them the advantage of familiarity, which not only came in handy but influenced their actions. Manmohan Singh and LK Advani were the last from the Indian and Musharraf from other side, who had any nostalgic associations across the border. As a new generation represented by Modi, charts a new chapter, changed mechanisms are only to be expected.
Another unique aspect of this relationship has been the use of cricketing ties as not only a barometer of the prevailing sentiments but also as a diplomatic tool used to influence progress.
While obviously this is an account from the Indian side the narrative is very balanced and bereft of any jingoistic assertions. I guess diplomats don’t shout slogans.
Highly recommended.
