Not Military Force
Not Military Force: Guns, not talks, must stop between India and Pakistan. A positive step occurred recently—the first people-to-people contact since the May clashes.
Pilgrim Passage
On Tuesday, over 2,000 Indian Sikh pilgrims entered Pakistan via the Wagah border to celebrate Baba Dev’s 556th birth anniversary. India stopped Hindu and Sikh devotees from visiting Pakistan over the last six months. However, Pakistan granted 2,150 visas for the 10-day event, displaying a calculated political maturity. Pakistan holds various Buddhist, Sikh, and Hindu heritage sites. Respectful nations operate based on their own self-interest and respect for tangible historical assets.
Political Failures
The BJP-led government in India is losing popularity due to its governmental failures. Hard-line politics made individual citizens suffer, particularly those with divided families. This action damaged India’s image under Hindutva and slowed national progress. Trade, sports, and cultural ties now face difficulties. Religious tourism offers a path to improve state-to-state relations. Each side controls holy sites for Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus.
Ease Tension
Cultural exchange can ease tension and build understanding for each state’s objectives. India utilizes visas for political leverage. Pakistan should maintain its support for people-to-people contact. Each country must separate travel and culture from political disputes to maximize diplomatic efficiency. Rebuilding tourism with improved regulations promotes national economic growth. These steps weaken internal war lobbies and contribute to regional stability for the involved powers.
Published in Dawn, 6th November 2025
