A cheap shot, but one shot down just in time. India’s blame tactics post-Pahalgam attack are backfiring, and now it no longer has any narrative worth selling. Still, as a globally ‘recognized’ chronic complainer, New Delhi remains fixated on blaming Pakistan for the terror attack sans investigation. This attitude has not only increased tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors but also marred diplomatic efforts.
India is behaving like that child who deliberately breaks his own toy and then approaches everyone around, pointing a finger at his neighbor for the destruction. This time, New Delhi tried to approach the International Monetary Fund with its complaints, urging it to review Pakistan’s ongoing $7 billion loan program. The international lender, however, put India in its place, saying the IMF Executive Board meeting would take place on May 9, as scheduled.
After facing rejection on multiple international forums, the red-faced Modi government is apparently sharpening its tools on another front, perhaps to choke Pakistan’s economic recovery. It is reportedly weighing the option of nominating Pakistan for the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) ‘grey list’.
But it is not as simple as throwing mud and hoping it sticks. India would need to rally support from other FATF members. More importantly, it would have to present credible evidence against Pakistan, specifically regarding financial misconduct.
It is high time for India to come to its senses and realize that its case is built on mere sentiments sans substance. Although condolence notes from more than 20 member nations might comfort egos in Raisina Hill, that is not a substitute for proof. Islamabad has been seeking the same evidence, and repeatedly offered help in the neutral investigation.
By levelling allegations against Pakistan without even an iota of proof, it has already blackened its face in the eyes of the international community. It must stop chasing ghosts and start acting responsibly if it still hopes to command respect
The futile bids to turn sympathy into leverage will take New Delhi nowhere. Saner minds within the Indian government and opposition must realize that crying wolf on the global stage risks not being taken seriously when real threat emerges. Moreover, Pakistan is not a tenant that New Delhi believes it can get evicted by making a few phone calls or sending letters.
The more India leans on manufactured outrage, the more it exposes its own diplomatic fatigue. It is time for New Delhi to drop the blame game and introspect lest the facade cracks beyond repair. By levelling allegations against Pakistan without even an iota of proof, it has already blackened its face in the eyes of the international community. It must stop chasing ghosts and start acting responsibly if it still hopes to command respect.
