Islamabad (PNP Opinion):
Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, a prominent Pakistani politician and minority leader, has penned an op-ed titled “Modi-Sharif peace accord?” published in the widely-circulated Urdu-language daily Jang newspaper on May 01, 2025 and English daily The News on May 03, 2025.
The article is written in the aftermath of a terrorist attack in the Pahalgam area of Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in significant casualties. This incident has exacerbated the already fragile relationship between Pakistan and India, both of which are nuclear-armed nations. The attack has led to increased military activity along the Line of Control (LoC) and heightened fears of a potential conflict. In response, the Indian government has reportedly authorized its military to initiate offensive operations against Pakistan.
Dr. Ramesh Vankwani , who also heads Pakistan Hindu Council, advocates for peace, co-existence and diplomacy amidst the rising threat of war. In his article, he addresses the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India following a terrorist attack in the Indian-administered region of Jammu and Kashmir with a suggestion that top leadership of both countries must sign a peace treaty before starting the full-fledged war against each other.
Dr. Ramesh Vankwani ‘s Advocacy for Peace
Dr. Ramesh Vankwani begins by condemning the Pahalgam attack and expressing condolences to the victims’ families. He further emphasizes that war is not a solution to international disputes and that both nations would suffer in the event of a conflict. This stance aligns with his longstanding position as a proponent of peace and diplomacy in South Asia.
Dr. Ramesh Vankwani ‘s Direct Appeal to IndoPak Public
The op-ed appeals directly to the citizens of both Pakistan and India, urging them to advocate for peace and to resist the war at any cost. Dr. Ramesh Vankwani’s call for public engagement is a strategic move to counterbalance the nationalistic narratives that often dominate media discourse during times of crisis.
Critique of War Narratives
Dr. Ramesh Vankwani criticizes the portrayal of war as a viable option by certain segments of the media and political leadership. He warns against the glorification of conflict and highlights the potential human and economic costs that would be borne by both nations. He took the stance that the outcome of every war in the past is the signing of peace treaty, while mentioning Delhi Pact, Tashkent Declaration, Simla Agreement and Lahore Declaration.
This critique serves as a strong counter-narrative to the prevailing sentiments that favor military confrontation between both nuclear-armed states.
Most interestingly, Dr. Ramesh Vankwani reminds the people of India about the visit of their Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to Pakistan for signing the Lahore Declaration with his Pakistani counterpart in February 1999. He recalls that PM Vajpayee had recited his poem ‘We will not let war to break out’ while interacting with people of Pakistan at Minar-e-Pakistan.
Emphasis on Diplomatic Channels
Dr. Ramesh Vankwani further highlights the importance of utilizing diplomatic channels to address the underlying issues between Pakistan and India. He advocates for dialogue and negotiations as the primary means to resolve disputes, rather than resorting to military confrontation. According to Dr. Ramesh Vankwani, Kartarpur Corridor is the most suitable site to sign the proposed peace accord between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Pakistan Main Shehbaz Sharif. He mentions that free movement at Kartarpur Corridor amid border tensions is a ray of hope for every peace-loving person.
“It is my dream that Indian PM Narendra Modi abandons the intention of war once and forever and announces a visit to Kartarpur, where his Pakistani counterpart Mian Shehbaz Sharif will be present to welcome him,” this is what Dr. Ramesh Vankwani writes in his column.
Promotion of Peaceful Discourse
By publishing this op-ed, Dr. Ramesh Vankwani contributes to the promotion of a peaceful discourse in the media. His position challenges the prevailing narratives of tussle and encourages a more wise, balanced and thoughtful approach to resolve the issue.
Influence on Public Opinion
As a prominent member of Parliament and an influencial minority leader with significant popularity internationally, Dr. Ramesh Vankwani’s views are likely to resonate with a broad audience, not only in Pakistan but also across the border. His call for peace would definitely influence public opinion and encourage citizens of both countries to raise voice for peace as well as to demand more responsible approach from their leadership.
Potential Impact on Policy
While the op-ed reflects an individual perspective, it may have an indirect impact on policy discussions. Undoubtedly, public sentiment, influenced by such write-ups, can pressure policymakers to reconsider aggressive postures and explore diplomatic avenues.
Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani’s op-ed therefore provides a critical perspective on the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India. His advocacy for peace, critique of war narratives, and emphasis on diplomacy are highly appreciated for suggesting a constructive approach to addressing the challenges facing the region.
In times of crisis, voices that promote dialogue and understanding are essential in steering nations away from the precipice of conflict. This op-ed, penned by Dr. Ramesh Kumar Vankwani, serves as a timely call of the significance of peace and the role of informed public discourse in shaping regional policies. The day is not far when top leadership of Pakistan and India will have no option but to sit on the table of dialogue, as Dr. Ramesh Vankwani proposes in an impressive way.
