I had a great discussion with Mr Sree Iyer on the latest peace initiative from Pakistan. We started from the basics and went on to discuss a whole range of connected topics. Mr Iyer led me on to many issues and skilfully ensured that we navigated a large part of the Indo Psk terrain. We ventured into issues beyond the normal ‘military’ angles. It was not only interesting but a great learning experience for me.
‘Sir, will China invade us?’ ‘We hear China has increased activities on the border’. Chinese consolidation activities on the LAC have prompted such reactions and fears. Lot of such inquiries from citizens within and outside India. Why? Bodies floating down Ganga, mass graves, lack of oxygen, medicines or hospital beds, botched vaccination program, uninterrupted work on Central Vista - all these have eroded our political capital immensely and seeded such doubts. Our national institutions are being compared to ‘rottweilers’ in the media. Economy? Unemployment figures and stock markets – both rattling up. Strangest combination. Rich getting richer and poor getting poorer. An ominous divergence which bodes ill. Leadership? Kis Chidiya ka naam hai bhai? National level paralysis in responding to the second wave. Erosion in comprehensive national power. Many have never experienced India being so weak. Nor did I for that matter. This frightening experience ...
Enjoyed the talk for I liked and agree to the arguments articulated
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