India's Recurring Pak Conundrum: To talk or not to talk?

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Abstract

Following the attack at an Indian Air Base in Pathankot Punjab on January 2 by Pakistani terrorists that killed seven military personnel and wounded several others, and the subsequent attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif in Afghanistan, Indo-Pak relations are in a familiar conundrum and a sense of deja vu pervades the current situation. The militant group Jaish-e-Mohammad close to Pakistani intelligence is believed to be behind the attack. Whether the Army in Pakistan was aware or complicit in the attack is unclear (although quite likely) with contrary assessments emerging. However, India’s response has been predictable - Pakistan needs to act firmly against the terrorists or the scheduled foreign secretary level talks will be suspended. On a highly refreshing note, Pakistani authorities have exhibited prompt action, conducted several raids and arrests based on inquiries and Indian evidence, and even created a Joint Investigations Team.