New Delhi, July 2: A group of 117 prominent figures from India and Pakistan has urged Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif to resume dialogue and restore normal relations. The open letter, coordinated by former ambassador OP Shah, was signed by social activists and leaders from the Centre for Peace and Progress.
In an interview with a news agency, OP Shah emphasized the need for improved relations between India and Pakistan to foster trust in the Indian subcontinent. He stated, “If relations improve and normalcy returns, it will benefit the people of both nations. We need to appeal to both Prime Ministers to engage in dialogue and work towards building trust.”
When asked if the Modi government opposes the peace process with Pakistan, Shah responded, “This question should be directed at the government. As an Indian citizen, I wish for our Prime Minister to take initiatives for better relations with Pakistan. Currently, our relations are not good; there’s no doubt about that.”
Shah pointed out the absence of diplomatic missions, stating, “We have no High Commissioner there, and they have none here. Our planes cannot fly to Pakistan, and theirs cannot come to India. There is no normal communication happening between the two countries.”
On whether a Congress-led government would be more effective in maintaining peace, Shah refrained from making political judgments, saying, “I just want to emphasize that we desire peace in this subcontinent and normal relations between India and Pakistan.”
Regarding the potential for Rahul Gandhi to be the best Prime Minister for fostering good relations with Pakistan, Shah expressed, “I hope whoever becomes Prime Minister of India will work towards better relations with Pakistan, as it is beneficial for us.”
On the issue of reinstating Article 370 in Kashmir to improve relations, Shah noted, “The Supreme Court has ruled on this matter, so not much can be said. However, the manner in which it was revoked was not satisfactory. Civil society in India was upset because the Jammu and Kashmir government should have been consulted.”
Discussing Indian cricketers traveling to Pakistan, Shah remarked, “We want better relations, not just in cricket but in many areas. We should foster closer ties with Pakistan.”
When asked about India being a victim of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, Shah acknowledged, “This is indeed a problem for India. Terrorism has affected us, and we have brought this to the attention of the Pakistani government. We want both governments to talk to resolve this issue, as terrorism benefits no one and harms everyone.”
On Track-2 diplomacy, Shah mentioned, “While we cannot currently visit Pakistan, I regularly meet many Pakistanis via Zoom, and they all desire closer and better relations.”
Finally, when questioned about whether Track-2 dialogue would disrespect the families of martyrs, Shah asserted, “True tribute to martyrs comes when we create a situation where no one is killed. We are suggesting dialogue between both governments to prevent innocent lives from being lost.”
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