What Pakistani army is doing needs admiration.  It is a step in the right direction to eradicate terror menace from the territory.  However, this military operation has a very sad addendum attached to it.   Sad in the sense that it took the lives of over 140 innocent children belonging to the army officers for the Pakistani army to launch a military operation.  In the past, these militants had killed thousands of innocent people whose blood was just wasted without any repercussion to the fanatics.  Now, the time will tell how successful this military operation is going to be.  But this writer is very apprehensive about this partial military operation - partial because they are going after the TTP only and not touching the other non-state actors, the leaders of LeT and JuD and JeD.  These are the actors who are in cohoot with the Pakistani/ISI nexus.  These actors are openly preaching a 7th century jihad ideology against all non-Sunis and non-Muslims.  I don't think the Pakistani government realizes that this ideology is going to be the cause of downfall of Pakistan in the long run.  Therefore, it is essential for Pakistan to root out this ideology and put all these fanatics behind bar without any parole.  This is the right time for Pakistan to set aside all the political and personal interests and think about the survival of a nation first.

It is indeed a very sad and heart breaking news as to what happened in Pakistan.  These fanatics outlaws militants have no mercy and they don't even think for a minute to murder innocent people just to propagate their religious views.  These brainwashed and misguided bunch of thugs needs to be removed from the face of this earth.  Our heart goes to the bereaved families and may Almighty God bestow upon the families all the strength to bear this irreparable loss.  Mr. Nawaz Sharif said it right that there are no 'good or bad' Talibans.  He lifted a moratorium on the death penalty for the militants.  This writer agrees with his analysis.  When it comes to devastation and killing in the name of furthering their un-Islamic views, they are all the same and need to be met with full force.  Unfortunately, what Pakistani leaders say and do are two different things.  The very next day of this incidence, the Pakistani court freed Mr. Lakhvi the founder of LeT and mastermind of November 26, 2008 attack in Mumbai, India on a one million rupees bail.  Just to remind the world, in that attack more than 162 innocent lives were lost too.  So, if Mr. Sharif is so upset with the loss of innocent lives in the Peshawar, Pakistan military school and willing to punish the TTP entity with full force till they are eliminated from the Pakistani territory, whey then he is letting Mr. Lakhvi - a proven criminal - go scot-free on bail.  For that matter, why no action is being taken against Mr. Lakhvi's buddy Mr. Saeed, another LeT leader who was also involved in the Mumbai attack?  The US government has $10 Million bounty on Mr. Saeed's head, but the government in Pakistan has turned a blind eye on this case.  On the contrary, Pakistani government/Military/ISI are financing, abetting and organizing all the religious and political moves of Mr. Saeed.  Mr. Saeed just conducted a big get together in Lahore and the government establishments provided special trains to bring people for this gathering from all over Pakistan.  So, even though what happened in Peshawar is unfortunate and needs serious condemnation, but this writer is very apprehensive about the seriousness on the part of Pakistani government in Islamabad to eradicate the militancy from its territory.  I feel what Pakistani leaders are saying right now on this incident is diplomatic and courteous statements to appease the public, and they are in no position or have the determination to achieve their objective and i.e. to eliminate the menace of terror from its root cause.

The agreements signed between India and Russia are indeed very important for many reasons.  The most significant is to boost Mr. Modi's slogan of 'make in India' which in turn will give a tremendous push to the creation of jobs in India.  Needless to say, higher employment means more cash available in the hands of consumers which in turn will create more demand for goods resulting higher production of those desired goods.  So, on an overall basis, this is a step in the right direction as far as economy is concerned.  As we all know, due to the sanctions imposed by the western nations, weaker Ruble, lower oil prices and the apprehension on the part of global investors to invest in Russia, Russia is feeling the pinch of this burden. Keeping in view a long lasting relationship with Russia, it is also a good gesture to rise to the occasion for old friends at the time of need.  Therefore, signing of these agreements is a win-win situation for both India and Russia.  Secondly, what this writer feels the utmost important factor is the mileage India can achieve emanating from these agreements and that is to seek Russia's involvement to pacify China's aggressive territorial attitude towards India.  China has been trying to encircle India from North, Northeast, Southeast and West side of India's territories.  Russia being in good books with China can persuade the latter to mend its fences and desist from an aggressive territorial ambition.  We all know that China is exploiting a weak government in Islamabad to its own advantage and the live example is to upgrade the Gwadar port in Pakistan to bring oil from that port to China at a faster and cost effective rate and use this facility as their naval base.  In turn, China is arming Pakistan to provide a tough front to India.  This momentum can be stopped or at least slowed down with the help of Russia.  I wonder if something of this nature is in the Indian leaders' cards?

Mr. Musharraf's statement about the bad policy of the United States proves an old adage ' grapes are sour'.  United States funneled billions of dollars along with a military might over many decades to keep Pakistani economy floating.  It is the greed of military/ISI nexus in Pakistan along with mismanagement of the economic and screwed up social, cultural and religious policies pursued and influenced by non-state militant actors which ought to be blamed for the failure of Pakistan's regimes.  Mr. Musharraf's statement further shows how ungrateful Pakistani leaders are.  He states that it was a mistake in recognizing Taliban's government in Afghanistan.  I wonder who forced them to do it.  If the Pakistani leaders had a long term vision, they would have rejected this idea and kept themselves away from these militants.  Speaking of militants, if Pakistani leaders are so upset with these non-state actors, why have not they been able to dismantle their activities in Pakistan itself?  Instead, Pakistani government shows bonhomie gesture towards these militants by financing, abetting and organizing their activities especially against India.  Since Mr. Musharraf is entangled with many charges including treason, he is trying to gain the sympathy of military establishment in Pakistan by shifting all the blames on the civilian governments.  This type of byzantine tact will not work in the long run.

What Mr. Musharraf is saying is in a true sense the mentality of Pakistani leaders.  They cann't forget India's role in 1971 which was instrumental in the creation of Bangladesh.  Pakistan basically lost half of its territory and a good source of revenue which was coming from then East Pakistan.  However, this writer is very much surprised what Mr. Musharraf is comparing his Kargil's failed military operation of 1999 to the 1971 war of Bangladesh.  It took Pakistan 28 years to plan such an attack with very dismal outcome which showed a complete discomfiture of Pakistani military.  Pakistan is still licking its wounds of 1971 war.  Mr. Musharraf is correct in saying that the discussion between India and Pakistan ought to be on the same footing - respect for each other and equal terms.  But Mr. Musharraf is forgetting that a forum to exchange fruitful dialogues can be created only when both the parties have the authority and a free hand to make a final decision and ready to sign an agreement.  India has tried to achieve this objective many a time in many different ways- but all in vain.  India even showed a sense of perseverance in spite of many untoward incidence and militant attacks emanated from Pakistan.  This one sided effort has still been going on since 1947.  The military/ISI nexus in Pakistan has tied the hands of civilian leadership in Islamabad behind their back and no civil leader dares to sign any agreement which is against the will of Military/ISI.  The perpetual rift between India and Pakistan is the only base predicated on which a lion share of Pakistani budget is earmarked for the maintenance of Pakistani defense forces.  Therefore, India should forget about seeing a day in which a ray of amelioration in the relationship can be expected.  Ignore Pakistan and keep moving forward towards the prosperity and security of India.  Pakistan is doomed to fail.  It is just a matter of time.

What Mr. Doval is saying makes sense.  India has to keep its forces ready with the best equipment, second to none, which enable them to fight a two-front war, namely the combined forces of Sino-Pak.  This is possible only with a strong economic development and a double digit annual growth in the economy.  The emphasis needs to be on the R & D which is a backbone of any given country.  Why America is a great nation and a super power today?  It is not only because of its large economy, but due to its ultimate tilt towards allocation of large resources for the R & D sector.  The whole world is envy of America's success in this area.  Lot of nations try their best to steal American technology because it is cheaper for them instead of inventing the wheels.  However, needless to say, when one entity develops a final product predicated on a stolen technology, that entity always remains a follower instead of becoming a leader.  India needs to become a leader in the field of new technology and not a follower.  As Mr. Modi said, India has the talent and manpower to accomplish anything India wants.  It is a matter of setting the priorities right and channeling the available resources in the right direction.  Time has changed and the saying 'might is right' stands true and is recognized by others.  While India is trying on its own to invent new things through its own investment in the R & D sector, it may not be out of line to ponder upon a notion of joining hands with the USA or Russia for a long term defense pact to thwart any military motion from China and Pakistan combined.

Mr. Basit is singing on the old tune of Kashmir issue without making much sense.  He is looking for a fair and just resolution on this issue and he professes that both India and Pakistan ought to solve this enigma on equal footings.  However, this writer has a different opinion.  First of all, Mr. Basit should realize by this time that Kashmir is not an issue to be discussed.  It is part of India and will end up becoming part of India of whatever is illegally occupied by Pakistan also.  Secondly, India and Pakistan are not on equal footings in any shape and form - economically, militarily and culturally etc.  I agree with the stand Mr. Modi's government has taken which is not to deal with Pakistan unless the government in Islamabad is able to eradicate terrorism from its territory and surrendering the goons of D-Company.  Once that is achieved, then only the two nations can work together to create a trajectory of establishing a more peaceful environment.  To create a meaningful dialogue, one needs free hands of both the parties.  India has extended an olive branch  many a times towards this objective, but it is Pakistani leaders whose hands are tied behind their back which make them unable to deliver.  So, Mr. Basit ought to impress upon his own government first to take care of these old lingering issues before expecting any initiative from India.

Mr. Fatemi's statement is very clear as respects to Pakistan's attitude towards improving relationship between India and Pakistan.  Pakistani leaders always address India as either an 'arch-rival' or 'enemy' of Pakistan.  With that kind of sentiment and spewing of venom, how can one expect to see any possibility of amelioration of relationship between these two countries?  At least this writer, even though a positive thinker, does not see it happening in the near future.  Mr. Fatemi shifts the blame of this recent cancellation of high level meeting between the officials of both the nations on the meeting of Pakistani official with the separatists leaders of J & K.  However, he forgets that these are the separatists leaders who are creating anarchy in that part of India- of course with the full abetment and financial support of Pakistan. How can India allow Pakistani officials to continue meeting with these trouble makers or should I say the stooges of Pakistan on an Indian ground?  Since India is 100% against terrorism and allowing such meetings defeats India's purpose of achieving success in this respect.  I am glad that Mr. Fatemi's statement clarified as to how authoritative Pakistani military establishment is while alluding to the failure of an effort on the part of ex- President Mr. Musharraf to propose initiating steps to improve relations with India.  Even though it was no secret, but he again confirmed it.  It seems Pakistan has closed its door and there is not going to be any step taken by them to pursue any further discussion to improve relations with India - which I think is good for India.  India ought not to extend any olive branch to Pakistan until there is an improvement on all the points what Mr. Modi discussed with President Obama in the US in September 2014.  As we all know, Pakistan is a failed economy, floating and surviving with the help of petro-dollars.  I am sure with the oil price heading south and an anarchy in Pakistan, the cash flow will shrink to a greater extent and Pakistan is going to cave in under its own problems.  Pakistan does not need any external 'enemy' or 'arch-rival', it is its own enemy.

The judgement in the Dhaula Kuan, Delhi rape case is the correct one. This is the only way these rapists can be taught a lesson. Severe punishment will create a sense of fear and the next rapist, if any, will think multiple times of the consequences before repeating the same mistake. It is imperative for the whole society to protect the honor and safety of female community. If females are not safe, the families will be torn apart which in turn creates lot of societal and marital problems. The children growing from the broken families are not generally that productive for the society. It sounds like a vicious circle, but it is important to maintain it. This writer is a firm believer of strict imprisonment for the rapist, and going a step further, I would suggest to amend the Indian Constitution wherein a life imprisonment is automatically awarded for the rapist without any parole.

It appears that the leaders of ISIS are determined to bring the tide of their ideology into the Asian continent also.  The symptoms of its existence are apparent on the walls of Karachi and other places in Pakistan.  TTP along with some other non-state militant organizations of Pakistan have already pledged their allegiance to the leader of ISIS.  Pakistani government especially the nexus of military/ISI  all along supported the militants and paid a blind eye to their activities in Pakistan.  Now, those seeds of militancy sowed by Pakistan are being nurtured by the combined effort of all these non-state actors and it appears that pretty soon they will take the shape of a grown up tree.  A tree which will not be providing sweet fruits and flowers full of fragrance, rather it will be a dry tree full of thorns hurting everybody who is nearby.  It is going to be a testing exercise for the Pakistani army as to how to eradicate this menace when it takes a full blown shape.  However, this threat is not going to be limited, as the leader of ISIS states, only to Pakistan, rather this organization has a very long range mission to spread this fanatic ideology to other countries also, including India.  Therefore, it is an opportune time for India to gird its loin and be proactive before this ideology steps into its territory.

The threat posed by the ideology of ISIS is not limited only to the Middle East Region.  It has become a worldwide phenomenon.  The supporters of ISIS are unfurling their flag openly in the Kashmir area and ironically the Chief Minister of Kashmir states that there is no influence of ISIS in his State.  The local officials are saying that this situation is being monitored.  The time has come when just monitoring the situation is not going to be enough, it is the time to take stern measures to nip the evil in the bud.  The proponents of ISIS ideology ought to be imprisoned and charged under sedition.  Just arresting the tailor who sewed the flag is not going to take care of this problem.  As far as coalition of a few nations to fight against ISIS in the Middle East is concerned, it is a joke.  It is the USA only which is carrying most of the burden.  Rest of the nations are just providing a lip service.  Many Muslim nations in the region are just watching the show while sitting on the sideline.  Also, it is appropriate to note that the air strikes by the so-called coalition is not going to destroy the ISIS, as the military experts are asserting.  Hence, boots on the ground are required to terminate this menace. The government in Delhi needs to supersede the authority of local government in Kashmir, because it is a matter of national security and not a local issue any more.

What Mr. Jaitley is saying is nothing new.  All Defense Ministers in the past have been making similar statements when it comes to skirmishes on the LOC.  The point to ponder is what it is Mr. Jaitley is insinuating.  Is he going to declare a war with Pakistan which might lead to a nuclear war with its own catastrophic consequences? We all know that Pakistan cann't win a conventional war with India-previous conflicts are live proof of the end results.  Hence, out of frustration someone in Pakistan might push a nuclear button.  India ought not to forget that Pakistani military authorities have not forgotten a military defeat and moral setback of 1971.  They would like to set the score with India in the same coin.  Whether they will be able to accomplish this objective or not, only time will tell.  For that reason, Pakistani military was not, is not and will not be supporting any idea of improving relations with India - it is given.  What is happening at the LOC is an intentional military decisions to divert the attention of Pakistanis from the domestic economic and religious issues, not to underestimate what may come out of 'long march' and 'dharna' headed by Mr. Imran Khan and Dr. Tariq in that country. This writer is of the opinion that these border scuffles and skirmishes are not going to stop unless Pakistan is taught a lesson which will bring the Pakistani Generals on their knees - a replica of what happened in 1971.  One more suggestion, if that happens, make sure Pakistani Generals/government signed an undertaking to the effect that they will never claim Kashmir as their territory.  IT IS ABOUT TIME INDIA TAKES A STERN ACTION IN THIS REGARD.

Prime Minster of Pakistan is shifting the responsibility and blame on the so-called religious scholars for all the Islamic problems.  Yes, it is true that the true message of Islam is not imparted properly to the Muslims in most of the mosques worldwide, but the government cann't ignore its own responsibility of making sure that the Mullahs in the mosques are well qualified from the known and reputed Islamic institutions before they are authorized to head any of the Mosques.  Right now the problem lies with the Mullahs who are not well qualified to understand the true meaning of Islam.  They are just sent to the Mosques or Madrassas funded by the petro-dollars to brain wash the attendees.  Their understanding of Islam is not questioned at all with the result a subjective and contorted version and understanding of Islam is taught to the attendees.  As they say, your thought process depends upon what you are taught.  Therefore, all suicide bombers we witness today are the crops of misguided version of Islam.  Islamization with the concept of Wahhabism has failed miserably.  That concept may be right to practice Islam in the 7th century, but in today's global economy, development of technology and modern day age, the old concept of Islmization needs lot of scrutiny and changes.  The government of Pakistan ought to spend on quality education so that the future generation of Pakistan can contribute something worthwhile for the society instead of bringing society to the ruins by being brainwashed at the madrassas.  An appointment of Mullahs needs to be scrutinized and only qualified Mullhas from the known and reputed institutions ought to be appointed to the mosques.  This is the only way to change an ideology of terrorism failing which Pakistan has no future and is doomed to be destroyed by the internal forces.

It is ironical that Prince of Saudi Arabia is blaming others for tarnishing the image of Islam by the forces of darkness when this ideology of darkness has been ingrained in the minds of yesterday's children by the petro dollars funneled by Saudi Arabia through Wahabism philosophy of Islam.  The teaching of 7th century ideology of Islam via. many madrasas worldwide - especially in Pakistan - is creating a havoc in the world.  Yesterday's students of those madrasas are today's leaders of many terrorist groups.  Whether it is ISIS, Al-Queda or Boko Haram, they all follow a common policy of killing all non-Sunis with the result the whole world is witnessing an on-going slaughter of many innocent people.   Thanks to Saudi Kingdom's generous contribution to the spread of this evil philosophy.  However, one wonders why all of a sudden this hue and cry about terrorism emanating from the Kigndom when they are the ones who abetted, financed and propagated this evil ideology of Islam.  They have been supporting this philosophy for decades and never questioned the evil side of this ideology.  I think the reason Kingdom is raising this alarm now is because of the threat they perceive with the swift move of ISIS in Syria and Iraq.  They feel their kingdom is in danger if no action is taken to stop ISIS.  I do not think Kingdom hates the policy being pursued by the ISIS.  Actually, they are afraid of losing their kingdom.  This may be a good opportunity for the Kingdom to desist from spreading the Wahabism ideology of Islam and admit their own mistakes in supporting this evil.  Instead of spending petro-dollars to establish madrasas all over the world for the sake of 7th century philosophy of Islam, the Kingdom should earmark those dollars to spread a message of peace, love and living in harmony with people of other religions.

One cann't deny the factual information which exists between India and China.  This information leads one to emphasize that China's economy is  much larger than India's, their military muscles are stronger than India's and more over their ambition for territorial expansion is insatiable versus India's non-existent desire to occupy territory of any other nation.  While Chinese President was visiting India and discussing with Mr. Modi some actions to be initiated to bring peace and tranquility in the region, Chinese forces were following the marching orders of their generals to move into the Indian territory in the Ladakh region. China cann't be trusted.  It is true that India has come a long way from its decrepit military situation since 1962, but it is still an uphill battle to match with what China has accomplished during the last about 20 years because of surge in their economy.  Therefore, to protect India's interest and security, it is an opportune time for Mr. Modi to streamline some programs with Washington.  Also, since President Obama's polls are down, it is a good opportunity for him too to show a sincere overtures towards India which will be a feather in his foreign policy cap.  Developing a long term sincere agreements with India in the fields of economy,technology and defense will provide the USA a sincere partner in the Asian continent to offset the balance against China.  India has been more or less successful in signing some important agreements with Japan, Vietnam and other nations in that part of the world, but an open and sincere backing from the United States will be conducive to maintaining peace and tranquility in Asia.   Right now, I think USA and India ought to ignore that hard feeling which caused due to some unavoidable circumstances in the past, and should start with a clean slate to move forward.  It will be a win-win situation, and Mr. Obama and Mr. Modi should not let this opportunity get lost due to past petty matters.

I could not agree more with what Mr. Jagannathan has stated in this article.  What he said is all facts known to the Indian leaders and to the whole world.  We know what India and China want in that part of the world.  However, it is also a fact that it is not going to be easy to derail China from its long range objective and that is to establish its hegemony in Asia.  This is the reason China has been encircling India by using its proxies and contacts with the neighboring countries - Pakistan in particular.  China wants to be an Asian superpower to start with and eventually to replace the USA in the eyes of the whole world as the superpower.  Mr. Jagannathan's recommendations as to how to go around this issue are worthy to be followed, even though they are long range objectives.  Since India is not going to give in easily and accede to Chinese guidelines and marching orders, India needs a long term security treaty to baffle Chinese short term military aggression, if any.  There are two ways to achieve that objective; one being to use India's Russian contacts to put pressure on the Chinese to vacate the Indian occupied territory, which may or may not be feasible in the short run, and secondly; to sign a long term security treaty with the United States or Russia which will make China think twice before invading India.

These incursions are nothing new.  China has been occupying Indian territory slowly and slowly since 1962.  It is happening in the North as well as on the North-East ( Arunachal Pradesh) side too.  China has a long term planned strategy to encircle India to establish its own hegemony in that part of the world.  As this report indicates, every year there are hundreds of such incursion. But the question is what is Indian government intend to do to reverse this practice.  Since Chinese President is visiting India, it is an opportune time for Mr. Modi to keep an occupation of Indian territory encroached upon by the Chinese government on the top of his agenda.  The reaction and response of Chinese President on this issue will evince as to how serious China is to improve relationship with India.  One ought not to under estimate China when it comes to negotiation.  One has to have a clear vision and understanding to read in-between lines.  China may be willing to invest billions of dollars in India with the pretext to ameliorate its relationship with India, but India should not just be complacent with this investment.  The current visit of Chinese President to India reminds me a similar visit of Chou-en-Lai in 1962 with a then very famous slogan of 'hindi chini bhai bhai' which was followed by the Chinese military invasion. What happened in that war is a part of historical record.  So the lesson learnt from our previous experience in dealing with China is not to show China an olive branch that easily unless India recovers the lost territory first.

It is always an honor to meet with the Heads of other nations, exchanging dialogues about current issues along with the issues which are thorny and trouble making between the two nations.  India has a few issues with China which are lingering on for many decades and seem to be stumbling blocks in ameliorating economic, diplomatic and cultural relationship with each other.  It is nice that Mr. Modi is going to Ahmedabad to receive Chinese President before he visits Delhi.  Also, it is very interesting to note that Buddhism has been incorporated in this article as a common link between India and China.  Yes, India like China has a big community of Buddhists who are very peaceful and believe in living a harmonious life.   However, I am not sure if the Chinese leaders in Beijing have the same understanding of a true meaning of Buddhism.  Chinese action in Tibet as well as in India is a live example of these leaders' aggressive attitude toward others.  They believe in annexing others' territory to fulfill their territorial ambition and ignore what Buddhism preaches.  This also reminds me a very popular slogan of 'HINDI CHINI BHAI BHAI' of 1962 which was followed by a prompt military aggression from China, and then what happened is a historical record.  Keeping in view the past experience, I just want to make Delhi little bit cautious about the Chinese' chess moves before India extends an olive branch to Beijing.

I agree with Mrs. Gandhi's outbursts on the issue of exporting beef to other countries.  It is really a shame to note that India is one the largest markets exporting beef to Muslim countries.  Cow in India needs to be worshiped based on our mythology.  Then how come, the Indian government is keeping a non-touching attitude towards this gruesome killing of a precious and religious animal?  I understand the dependence of livelihood of many people in the meat industry, but at what cost.  The Muslim countries - Bangladedsh or others - are fulfilling their need of beef consumption by importing it from India.  I wonder if those countries are willing to go through a barter system and export hog meat to India in return for getting beef from India.  Does anyone think that the Muslim countries will start slaughtering hogs right away?  The answer is flat 'NO'.  Then why Indian governments - state and federal level - are not shutting down this industry and making slaughtering of cows a federal crime?  Is our economic need more important than the religious sentiments?  Government should assist those who are working in the beef industry to some other areas so that their livelihood is not affected.  But to continue with this practice of killing cows is senseless, aimless and emotionless.  Mr. Modi has full control in both Houses of Parliament and it is an opportune time for him to remedy the current situation without wasting too much time.

It is a very well known and well documented fact that most of today's jihadis are yesterday's students who attended these Madrasas.  Mr. Mulla says that he teaches them Koran and love for India.  Teaching Koran is good, but I have a question about the real spiritual knowledge and understanding of Koran of all the mullahs worldwide.  Are they really qualified to interpret Koran?  Do they really understand the meaning of Koran?  Whenever I have an opportunity to participate in a religious discussion where our Muslims brothers are also involved, I get different interpretation of Koran.  Some say that the message which emanates from Koran is of 'love' and 'peace' whereas others do not hesitate to spew venom against all non-Muslims and brand them as infidels who are worthy to be punished. Those who have been brainwashed openly admit to go through the martyr activity with the hope that they will meet 72 virgins in heaven. Obviously, this is what they have been told in their respective mosques by the Mullahs.  This different interpretation is the cause of not having a true meaning of Islam.  Every Mullah interprets Koran predicated on his own knowledge and understanding of Koran.  Hence, a big question mark about the importance of having knowledgeable Mullahs - qualified by the known religious universities only - in the Madrasas and mosques.  Why Muslims in general have a bad reputation worldwide is because of wrong teaching of Islam by the Mullahs.  I blame the Mullahs who are twisting the meaning of Islam to fulfill their own self-motive which needs to be stopped to gain respect in the eyes of non-Muslims.  The ball is in the court of Mullahs who are aided and abetted by the petro-dollars to mend their fences before it reaches a point of no return.

What Philippine government is doing is a step in the right direction.  Anyone, whether he/she  is Imam or any ordinary citizen who is found to be instigating others by preaching anti-national slogans or sermons needs to be blacklisted and, if practical, ought to be deported or imprisoned without fail.  Other nations where these Muslim community leaders or so-called spiritual preachers exist should take a cue from the decision taken by the Philippine government to avoid the spread of terrorist activities.  Needless to say, these preachers prey on innocent people in the mosques and convert them into future suicide bombers.  These imams are the source of brain washing of innocent people. UK has lot of Muslim imams and community leaders who openly criticize the government and threaten to dethrone the present government and unfurl Muslim flag on the Queen Victoria's house.  It is shameful that the local government feels so handicapped in taking any strong measure to put muzzle on their faces and imprison them.  These fundamentalists are exploiting the soft tenets of democracy which ought not to be allowed to be exploited.  These brainwashed outlaws fundamentalist wherever they are should be muzzled now before it is too late.  If it requires to amend the respective Constitution, so be it.  If your country stops to exist, Constitution is a piece of paper which will be left with no value.  Therefore, protection and survival of a nation is of paramount importance than worrying about the pursuance of democratic principals which may be outdated.

What Saudi Royal family and Wahhabi clerics are doing is posing their dual personality in front of the whole world through their ironical religious activities and statements.  They don't do what they say they do or they don't at least appear to be doing what they meant to be doing.  The article states that the Royal family is liberal but it is the Wahhabi cleric community which is more radicalized.  I don't agree with this statement.  Royal family owns the Kingdom, and nothing can move without their consent.  Clerics dare not to violate the guidelines established by the Royal family.  If recent press reports are to be believed, the Saudi government has arrested many Christians who were worshiping in their houses, which the local officials found offensive in the Kingdom.  So, where is liberalism, secularism and religious tolerance?  What Islamic State in Iraq and Syria is doing the same thing what Royal family has been doing since day one, which is beheading, religious non-tolerance, mistreatment of female community and following the tenets of 7th century Sharia Law.  All of a sudden, the Royal family is afraid of a power being gained by the Islamic State forces in Syria and Iraq which is basically operating on the same principles what the Royal family is pursuing for decades.  If the Royal family does not mend its fences soon about their understanding of co-existence, religious tolerance and freedom of basic human rights, the time is not too far before the world will see the downfall of the Royal  family.  THE BALL IS IN THE COURT OF RULERS.

 I am very surprised that this anti-Christian action on the part of the Saudi government has generated so much concern in the eyes of Christian community and all of a sudden there is a demand for the US government to get involved and have these arrested Christians released.  The Saudi government never allowed any non-Muslim to practice their own religion in the Kingdom.  It is nothing new.  As this article stated, the Saudi government did not even allow the US soldiers to wear their religious crosses during the gulf war.  So, why all of a sudden this request to the US government to get involved?  In my opinion, the Saudi government is responsible for proliferating  and implementing a Caliphate idea, and the whole world is witnessing the consequences of those policies. The Saudi government financed, organized and monitored the Madrassas and mosques which are the breeding grounds of this evil ideology.  The windfall affluence in the 1970s from the black gold has created a spiritual unbalanced status in the Saudi Royal family.  As the saying goes, 'as you sow, so shall you reap'.  Now, even the Saudi government is scared from this Caliphate ideology being implemented by the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq.  The treatment meeted out by the non-Muslims in Saudi Arabia ought to be a wake up call not only for the USA but the whole world whose subjects are migrated to the Kingdom for livelihood.  The Saudis are exploiting the labor force due to poor economic opportunities in their own countries.  One way to bring the Royal families to its senses is to boycott their job offer, and the second a very crucial and long range one one is to initiate an action to confiscate their source of petro dollars.  All scriptures say that there is only 'one God' and, for whatever reason, that 'one God' is addressed by various names.  Names are different but that 'one God' is not different.  The King is about 90 years old.  It is about time for him to stop financing these mosques and madrassas which are the recruitment centers to propagate this 7th century convoluted religious ideology, and open the Kingdom for all people irrespective of their faith, beliefs and religion to visit the historical and religious places in the Kingdom.  This Saudi family has been responsible for the murder, torture and ill treatment of many innocent people.  If this King does something nice during his whatever time left, may be Almighty Allah will forgive him when he finally faces Him.

What Ms. Merkel is doing is a step in the right direction.  But supplying of arsenal to the Kurds or to the Iraqis is a temporary solution to this arduous long run ideological problem.  The idea is not to win this on-going battle between the ISIS and other non-Suni Muslims.  The aim is to eradicate this 6th century fanatical Muslim ideology. These fanatics are openly threatening to kill all Christians or should I say all non-Muslims.  I believe that this threat should not be taken lightly by any civilized government.  These Muslims are misusing the tents of their respective Constitutions towards liberty of speech and freedom to practice their religion literally.  They have found the weak link of western nations which is to respect the dignity of each individual, treat all human beings with respect and grant them equal rights under their Constitutions.  That is the reason they are outspoken in the European and American cities.  It may be true that under the Constitutions of civilized western nations, respective governments are not allowed to take any legal action unless these fundamentalists get involved in a terrorist activities which might entail death of individuals or destruction of properties.  But the leaders of the western nations have to bear in mind that if these brain washed people are allowed to speak anti-national slogans and threaten openly to the rest of the people, the time will come that they will over power the mind of lot of innocent people  by converting them to Islam.  We have so many cases in front of us right now where lot of westerners have joined the ISIS forces and they will not hesitate to slaughter the non-Sunis on a heart beat.  Therefore, the sources of proliferation of this fanatical ideology needs to be stopped and eradicated.  Simple way of eradicating this problem is to change the Constitutions to the effect that anybody making any anti-national statements will be treated as a traitor and punished accordingly.  Secondly, deport all illegal Muslims to their respect countries.  European and American leaders ought to take a cue from the Australians on this issue.  Australian leaders told to all Muslims either they should abide by their local laws if they want to live in Australia or they have a choice to get out of that country.   If Australia can do it why cann't European and American leaders follow suit.  If your Constitution consists of some old time clauses about this issue which may not be pertinent now with the change of time, it needs to be changed.  Constitution remains a piece of paper if it allows these radical elements to grow and become conducive for the Christians to lose their country.  If you lose your country to these fanatics, what good is that Constitution?  IT IS AN OPPORTUNE TIME FOR THE EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN LEADERS TO WAKE UP AND ERADICATE THE PROLIFERATION OF THIS RADICALISM, EVEN IF IT REQUIRES AN ANNIHILATION OF ALL THE PROPONENTS OF THIS IDEOLOGY.

This open challenge to the Christians or should I say to all non-Muslims by the either convert or Suni Muslims is a threat which should not be taken lightly by any civilized government.  These Muslims are misusing the tents of their respective Constitutions towards liberty of speech and freedom to practice their religion literally.  They have found the weak link of western nations which is to respect the dignity of each individual, treat all human beings with respect and grant them equal rights under their Constitutions.  That is the reason they are outspoken in the European and American cities.  It may be true that under the Constitutions of civilized western nations, respective governments are not allowed to take any legal action unless these fundamentalists get involved in a terrorist activities which might entail death of individuals or destruction of properties.  But the leaders of the western nations have to bear in mind that if these brain washed people are allowed to speak anti-national slogans and threaten openly to the rest of the people, the time will come that they will over power the mind of lot of innocent people  by converting them to Islam.  We have so many cases in front of us right now where lot of westerners have joined the ISIS forces and they will not hesitate to slaughter the non-Sunis on a heart beat.  Therefore, the sources of proliferation of this fanatical ideology needs to be stopped and eradicated.  Simple way of eradicating this problem is to change the Constitutions to the effect that anybody making any anti-national statements will be treated as a traitor and punished accordingly.  Secondly, deport all illegal Muslims to their respect countries.  European and American leaders ought to take a cue from the Australians on this issue.  Australian leaders told to all Muslims either they should abide by their local laws if they want to live in Australia or they have a choice to get out of that country.   If Australia can do it why cann't European and American leaders follow suit.  If your Constitution consists of some old time clauses about this issue which may not be pertinent now with the change of time, it needs to be changed.  Constitution remains a piece of paper if it allows these radical elements to grow and become conducive for the Christians to lose their country.  If you lose your country to these fanatics, what good is that Constitution?  IT IS AN OPPORTUNE TIME FOR THE EUROPEAN AND AMERICAN LEADERS TO WAKE UP AND ERADICATE THE PROLIFERATION OF THIS RADICALISM, EVEN IF IT REQUIRES AN ANNIHILATION OF ALL THE PROPONENTS OF THIS IDEOLOGY.

Any time there is a problem, fight or misunderstanding between two parties, there are a few ways to improve the relationship and they are either via. exchange of dialogues, exchange of cultural programs, development of economic environment and diplomacy.  What Ms. Kejiwal is doing a step in the right direction, but it is not a course of action which has not been tested before.  To make a long story short, Indian Bollywood has provided lot of economic opportunities to the Pakistani actors on a continuous basis.  Indian government has also attempted to ameliorate a bilateral relationship through Samjhotta bus service between India and Pakistan.  Lots of summit meetings have also taken place between the high officials of both countries since the birth of Pakistan, India and Pakistan have tried to award a Most Favored Nation status to each other.  Unfortunately, nothing has worked.  The situation between these two countries is worse than what they had started with in 1947.  Now, I do not mean to sound like a frustrated and pessimistic individual, rather I believe in keeping a positive attitude under all circumstances with the hope that some miracle will happen.  Ms. Bahree, in my opinion, India has done whatever it could by extending an olive branch to the Pakistani government many a times to reduce the trust deficit, but all in vain.  The main reason of this failure is the nexus of Pakistani army/ISI.  Pakistani army will never forget what India did to them in 1971 with the creation of now Bangladesh.  Needless to say, in that war Pakistan lost half of its nation and its military was humiliated to the extent they cann't forget.  Therefore, the Pakistani army will never let the civilian government in Islamabad sign and accept any proposal with India which will go against the interest of the former.  One can exchange dialogues, sign agreement and try to help reducing the trust deficit when both parties are free of any duress.  In the case of India and Pakistan,  the latter is under pressure from the nexus stated above and the hands of the civilian government in Islamabad are tied behind their back.  Therefore, no matter how aggressively Indian government and/or private parties attempt via diplomacy and social or cultural media, one ought not to expect any miracle to happen, at least not in the near future.  This is my opinion.

It is very interesting that the Saudi King is afraid of fanaticism and militant policies pursued by the ISIS.  They are butchering the non-Suni people with full impunity - beheading them, making them slaves and playing with the honor of females.  Ironically, the Saudi King is advising the western nations to fight against those who have hijacked Islam.  I just cann't help but laugh at the vulnerable situation the Saudi King feels himself in.  Instead of displaying his sense of fear, the King ought to admit that the forceful implementation of Sharia Law emanated from Wahabism, a 6th century law fully financed and supported by his forefathers.  It was and has been the Saudi Petro dollars which is promoting Wahibism through Madrassas in Pakistan and other Muslim countries.  It was the petro dollars which brain washed yesterday's children through these madrassas and those children have become today's martyrs. It is his family - Saudi Kingdom- which has hijacked Islam and no one else.  So, what is happening in front of his eyes is his family's own doing.  As the saying goes 'as you sow so shall you reap.  The whole world is witnessing slaughtering of innocent human beings every day.  Thanks to the Saudi Kingdom.  I think it is an opportune time for the King to make an announcement to stop abetting, financing and promoting all religious activities which help the ideology of killing of innocent people, spread hatred among other religions, rather work for establishing peace and tranquility in the world.  Hopefully, when he meets his Allah, the latter may forgive him for his sins.

The decision by the Qatar government sounds very ironical.  First, they funneled the pertro dollars to abet, finance and organize the Hamas force to fight against Israel knowing fully well that the arsenal possessed by Hamas is not even  near the capability and capacity of what Israel Defence Force (IDF) has in store.  The outcome of  a few weeks battle between IDF and Hamas is a clear indication of what was expected of this struggle.  Hamas has lost couple of thousands of their people in addition to many injured.  This is in addition to lots of property damage - many score of buildings have been razed to ground.  One wonders if this was a calculated move on the part of Qatar government to excite Hamas and have them witness the killing of innocent people and the destruction of property or was it just a sheer stupidity of not being able to sense the fire power Israel possessed to face a few thousand hired Hamas force.  Now, the Qatar government is ready to spend petro dollars to reconstruct the damaged buildings.  Did Hamas and Qatar government achieve anything which they should be proud of ?  No wise man will see any sense coming out of this venture.  Yes, it would have made sense for the Qatar government to invest the same petro dollars to construct schools in the Gaza area for the Palestinian population where people could get some education and be productive for the country instead of raising flags and get themselves killed.  It is a waste of human lives and man power.  Unfortunately, the majority of Muslim population is so uneducated that they do not even realize that they are being used by the leaders as sacrificial lambs Their brains have been instilled with the religious fervor to the extent that their individual thinking has been hijacked.  Their leaders are sitting in a posh air conditioned bungalows enjoying their lives at the expense of poor people in the streets.  Instead of demanding good schools where children can get educated and be competitive in the global economy, they are following the marching orders of their leaders blindly.  I wonder when the Muslim population which is being exploited by the leaders and Sheikhs come to its senses.

A decision to provide government security to a private citizen, Mr. Shah Rukh Khan, sounds a strange act on the part of local government.  Rather, should I say that it is a mere waste and wrongful use of national resources.  I understand the fear and security of a life of an individual, but why the local government is treating him a VIP person just because he is a Bollywood star and a rich person.  I wonder if tomorrow a poor man gets threatened by any of the Mumbai goons, would the local government be ready to spare a few security personnel to watch his house and protect his life.  Definitely not.  So, is it then by protecting Mr. Khan and not worrying about the life of a poor man who is equally threatened by the goons, the local government is differentiating the value of one's life from the other?   If Mr. Khan is threatened for whatever reason by the mobster, he has the means to protect himself.  Why does local government has to get involved in this matter?  If the central or state governments just think of rich and Bollywood stars only, the nation will be left behind.  The main purpose of both the governments ought to be to protect and uplift the less fortunate, educate them, create jobs for them and make sure that they are made to realize that their lives are equally important as the lives of Bollywood stars.

The tussle and rift between India and Pakistan is beyond repair precisely due to the reason lies with the Pakistani military.  Pakistani military is the supreme authority in Pakistan as far as its relationship with India is concerned.  In order to maintain its prestige, military will not like to see any improvement in this bilateral relationship.  Whenever, there is any initiative taken by either the government in Islamabad or New Delhi to improve these ties, one witnesses a turmoil or ceasefire violation on the LOC.  I can equate relationship between India and Pakistan with the situation in the Middle East - Jews and Palestinians- and North and South Korea.  The hatred for each other has been flowing in their blood streams.  Kashmir issue is not the real issue between India and Pakistan.  Pakistan military with the support of its non-state actors in Pakistan and separatists in J & K ( part of India) has been keeping this issue alive to maintain its importance and divert an attention of local Pakistanis away from its failed economic policies.  Pakistan could not manage and handle the territory it received in 1947.  They have already lost half the area during 1971 war which gave birth to Bangladesh.  The rest of 4 Provinces - Sindh, Panjab, Balochistan and KP - are in turmoil and innocent people are being slaughtered on a daily basis which shows devoid of ability and capacity of the Islamabad government to mange the remaining territory.  Therefore, an ambition to acquire more territory via. Kashmir is baseless.  The only way to solve this Kashmir riddle is by dismantling the Pakistani army by launching a full scale war, and winner takes all.

I could not agree more with Mr. Husain.  He did not mince any words about this barbaric policy pursued by the Saudis.  He is the only Muslim writer I have come across who seemed to have no hesitation in pointing fingers at the root cause of Islamization.  However, Mr. Husaim seemed to insinuate that the Clerics are more or less responsible in proliferating this un-spiritual ideology of Salafism whereas the Saudi King seems to have a moderate view of Islam.  I do not agree with that understanding.  Saudi family owned the country.  Nothing moves without their permission.  If the Royal family wants to stop this barbaric way of preaching Islam, they can do it at a heart beat. So, in my opinion, it is the Saudi family who is bent upon preaching a 6th century Sharia Law for the Muslims.  They are investing billions of dollars globally by establishing Madrassas to achieve this objective.  I wonder if the Saudi family realizes how many innocent people are being slaughtered daily who do not agree with the philosophy of Salafism.  In my opinion, it is the petro-dollars which is a 'trouble-maker' for this global menace.  I wish these Sheikhs could use this wind fall profit from the black gold in establishing good educational facilities where their locals could get academical education to compete in the whole world in different fields.  But that is not what they did because the basic mentality of Muslim rulers is not to educate the masses, keep them illiterate and rule them like slaves.  The only way to eradicate this Salafism ideology is to confiscate the source of revenue from these Sheikhs and stop the cash flow to these Madrassas.

Mr. Basit is justifying his meeting with the Kashmiri separatists as an on going acceptable activity between Pakistani diplomats and the separatists. He further states that the Indian government never objected to such meetings in the past.  Let me remind Mr. Basit that two wrong things do not make it right.  The foreign policy followed by the Congress leadership at the center towards Pakistan was a failed policy, and India is still paying the price.  I agree with the Indian government's stand with respect to stakeholders in Kashmir.  These separatists have no stake at all, and if someone asks me, India is the only stakeholder in Kashmir.  Kashmir ought to be a mute point if and when any further negotiation takes place between India and Pakistan.  Kashmir should not be on the agenda at all. Also, looking at the present chaotic situation in Pakistan, one is not sure how long this present civilian government in Islamabad is going to last.  India just need to sit on the side and let the dust settle before taking any diplomatic initiative.

I agree with the decision taken by the Indian government of not to participate in the impending Secretary-level meeting on August 25th. Since its birth for its survival, Pakistan has been pursuing a dual-faced policy not only with India, but with the United States also - the main donor of Pakistan's exchequer.  Pakistan wants to keep the diplomatic door open with India while abetting, financing and keeping a close relationship with the proxy entities in Kashmir.  These few Hurriyat leaders are serving Pakistan's interest in fomenting chaos in Kashmir.  These Hurriyat leaders also need to be brought to the books due to their anti-India relationship with the leaders of Pakistan. What these leaders are doing is a symptom of treason and need to face a legal music accordingly.  The idea of earmarking crores of rupees to bring back Kashmiri Brahmins and creating jobs in Kashmir are very positive and creditworthy steps announced by the Central government.  Once the employment situation in Kashmir is improved, the Muslim youngsters who are in the streets every day with an anti-India banners, will be working in the office and become productive instead of being a destructive force.  As far as Pakistan is concerned, it is going through a lot of turmoil due to the pressure from PTI and PAT parties who are demanding Prime Minister's resignation.  Under the circumstances, the Indian government ought to wait for the final outcome.  It is possible that Nawaz Sharif may not remain in the office for a long time.  Let the dust settle before making any diplomatic move.

It is very interesting that the Saudi King is afraid of fanaticism and militant policies pursued by the ISIS in the northern part of Iraq.  They are butchering the non-Suni people with full impunity - beheading them, making them slaves and playing with the honor of females.  Ironically, the Saudi King is advising his countrymen to fight against those who have hijacked Islam.  I just cann't help but laugh at the vulnerable situation the Saudi King feels himself in.  Instead of displaying his sense of fear, the King ought to admit that the forceful implementation of Sharia Law emanated from Wahibism,  It was and has been the Saudi Petro dollars which is promoting Wahibism through Madrassas in Pakistan and other Muslim countries.  It was the petro dollars which brain washed yesterday's children through these madrassas and those children have become today's martyrs. It is his family - Saudi Kingdom- which has hijacked Islam and no one else.  So, what is happening in front of his eyes is his family's own doing.  As the saying goes 'as you sow so shall you reap.  Saudi King is 90 years old and, needless to say, there is not much time left for him before he meets his Allah.  May be it is an opportune time for the atonement of Kingdom's sins for spreading 6th century Sharia Law though Wahibism.  The King ought to make an announcement to stop abetting, financing and promoting all religious activities which help the ideology of killing of innocent people, spread hatred among other religions and work for establishing peace and tranquility in the world.  Hopefully, when he meets his Allah, the latter may forgive him for his sins.

China has been bullying its neighbors for a long time now to satisfy its territorial ambition in that part of the world.  Chinese government has endorsed and approved this policy to create its hegemony in that region by declaring the territory in the South and East China Sea as well as the border locations with India as part of China.  The end results seems to be that India, Japan, Philippine, Korea, Vietnam etc. are feeling a military pressure from China to defend themselves in case of any unforeseen military eventuality.  Chinese government has been threatening to disrupt the oil drilling operations managed and operated by these countries in the South and East China Seas.  To complicate this issue further, China also has an on-going dispute about a few islands in that region with Japan.  Speaking of bad relations with the neighboring countries, China recently printed its revised map showing Arunachal Pradesh (an Indian territory) as part of China.  It is true that a windfall economic prosperity in China has provided enough stimulation for the Chinese government to pursue its goal of becoming a super power, but their way of approaching that objective seems to be on the wrong footing.  They cann't become a super power by annoying and bullying all its immediate neighbors.  Country becomes a super power by helping others grow and coming to the needs to those who need help.  United States became a super power not by bullying any country, but by fighting with the aggressor and helping others to come out of ruins.  Therefore, to safeguard its security, Japan has started evaluating their self-imposed restriction signed after WWII of not to manufacture heavy duty defense equipment.  The latest press report indicates that Japan has developed a stealth bomber equivalent to USA's F-35 which will help the Japanese forces to counter any military attack from China.  I am sure this idea is going to proliferate in other countries also whether they will start manufacturing their own military equipment or sign security treaties with each other to keep that region devoid of any turmoil.  As we know, America is trying to work on strategic relationship with the new Indian government by sharing technology in the defense and other fields.  To counter Chinese aggressive territorial designs, it may be an opportune time to contemplate on the lines of signing a long term security treaty with India which will be  mutually beneficial to both. TIME IS NOW TO STOP CHINA BEFORE IT GETS TOO LATE.

There is nothing wrong in dreaming high and trying to achieve those sometimes non-achievable dreams.  That is exactly what ISIS leader is determined to achieve.  Of course, time will tell what happens if they come close to that objective.  However, what is important for the civilized society here is not to ignore the ideology of these militants which is giving birth to these fanatic ideas of creating a caliphate regime in the world. Their slogan of being able to unfurl their flag either on the White House or somewhere else may be immaterial, baseless and non-achievable, but needless to say, their ideology is based on a firm belief that they can achieve this objective.  So, this ideology needs to be changed and, if possible crushed.  The enthusiasm which has become the driving force of their speedy movement in the Middle-East ought not to be the concern of Washington only, but of all countries where these brain washed caliphates are operating and that includes India also. Needless to say, India has been suffering in the hands of these militants for decades and the neighboring country is of no help to eradicate this menace, rather it abets, finances, trains and monitors their operations against India.  Therefore, the slogan emanating from the leader of ISIS could become a headache for the world if not checked and eliminated.  NOW IS THE TIME TO BE AGGRESSIVE AGAINST THIS EVIL.

What Hamas had done by constructing these tunnels was a work of art.  It is so ironical that on one hand this nation is condemning the existence and the nature of operation of Hammas (terrorist organization), and on the other hand providing American cement along with other materials and financial assistance to the Abbas government which has joined hands with the Hammas to run the Palestinian governmental operations.  What Israel has been doing and will be doing is right.  It is the job of the Israeli leaders to protect the lives of Israeli citizens.  However, I am little bit pessimistic about the future of Israelis in that part of the world - one due to the wavering and abysmal foreign policies of USA and secondly, due to the sheer # of Muslims and the flow of petro-dollars to equip Hammas soldiers. In my opinion, time there is in favor of Muslims.  If you notice, each child is being brain washed and the seeds of hatred and ill-will against Jews are being planted in their brain.  These children will be tomorrow's suicide bombers.  Secondly, Muslims can afford to sacrifice thousands and thousands of their fellow Muslims, but Israel cann't afford to lose that number of people every time they have to fight with the Muslims.  Lastly, majority of Muslims in that region are unemployed and are being fed with the help of petro or American tax payer dollars.  So, they have nothing to lose whereas Israeli economy is flourishing and they cann't afford any disruption in their economic boom.  However, a barbaric solution to this problem is the application of nuclear arsenal by the Israelis to make Gaza a parking lot.

I could not agree more with the writer about the despicable situation in Pakistan regarding ill treatment faced by the minorities in the hands of fundamentalists. On top of this, it seems that the government in Islamabad is ignoring and showing no concern at all to the fate of the minorities.  Minorities are being converted to Islam forcefully, their daughters are forced to marry  Muslims, blasphemy is not tolerated at all which means no freedom of religion and speech.  When Jinnah created a Pakistan, his intention was to have a secular state in which all people - Muslims and non-Muslims will be treated equally.  I wonder what happened to those intentions of the founder.  What a shameful situation?  As we all know, Pakistan is an epicenter of terrorism which is instrumental in creating havoc worldwide.  The civilized world has been suffering from this menace stemming from Pakistan.  Instead of isolating and segregating Pakistan, unfortunately, lot of cash flow is still being funneled to the Pakistan exchequer by the western countries.  That needs to be stopped.  Pakistan is a failed state run by incapable people - I would not even call them leaders.  Karachi, Balochistan and Panjab are burning every day.  KP province does not want to be part of Pakistan.  It is a state run by the nexus of military/ISI which has no sense of human responsibility- people in Pakistan are suffering, ill educated, no good health facilities, no respect for law and order and no life at all for female community.  The militants are running around in the country with full impunity creating havoc everywhere.  Yes, the world is concerned about the nuke arsenal Pakistan possesses.  May be it is time for the western nations to arrange some type of coup and take possession of this arsenal before they get into the hands of these brainwashed militant groups.

Like other rape cases in India, this is another sad story happened to a 27 year young lady in Kolkata.  I think these type of inhuman tragedies are happening in India due to either non-existence or non-compliance of severe legal punishment under the Indian Constitution for such crimes.  In this particular case, the way police authorities handled the situation is pathetic.  It appears that the police authorities were careless, not concerned and simply ignored the seriousness of this crime.  Of course, the rapists will face the punishment predicated on whatever verdict court announces, but in the eyes of this writer, local police is equally responsible for not understanding the seriousness of this crime and needs to face the legal music too.   This writer is a firm believer of an enactment of a national law (mandatory to be applied in states also) which will put the rapist, once proven guilty, behind bar for life without any possibility of parole., and if victim's life is involved, then the rapist needs to be hanged in public square to set a precedence for others who might be contemplating of committing a similar crime.  Yes, it sounds very barbaric, but the government authorities need to become barbaric with the criminals.  This is the only way to eradicate this heinous crime from the society.  If females are not safe in a society, that society will be reduced to ashes, morally speaking.  Unsafe and tortured females cann't nurture their children properly, cann't provide them adequate and proper education which means eventually that country's existence will have no meaning and value in the world community.  Unfortunately, these rape cases are happening on an hourly basis, it seems like, all over India.  This writer wonders what it is going to take before the central and state governments wake up and do something to eradicate this inhuman menace from the society?

The writer of this article is trying to misguide the public as well as the White House by insinuating that improving relations with India is a futile exercise in light of a few political differences between these two countries, even though the Indian government officials have stated that there is a possibility that these differences may be settled in September when Mr. Modi visits Washington DC.  The writer also is forgetting that American prestige and status in the world forums is decelerating in spite of being still  the super power.  Even small countries are not willing to be dictated by the USA.  As I see it, America does not have many real friends left in the world.  The writer of this article seems to have the notion that any country can survive in a vacuum when the current economy is predicated on global relationship.  Therefore, on the contrary, America needs India strategically, politically and globally to continue having its influence worldwide.  Also, one ought not to ignore the increasing military might of China in that part of the world which is going to be a big challenge for the USA.  If the latest press reports are true, China has ICBM (DF41) with the range of 12000 KM which can hit any corner of the United States.  To counter Chinese territorial ambition, it is very timely that America extends an olive branch to India.  I hope that the leaders in Washington DC are not misled by people who have anti-India thoughts brewing in their mind.

In view of worldwide political imbroglio the USA is experiencing, a recognition by the White House as to how important and strategic relationship with India can become is one thing, but to turn that recognition into a reality by taking a step forward by extending technological assistance in various fields is another issue to contemplate.  Having knowledge of a situation is the accumulation of facts which is a good start, but to have a wisdom to analyze those facts and come out with a win-win solution is something different.  In the eyes of this writer, what is missing is a long term wisdom to put an Indo-US relationship on a concrete footing especially when the USA has basically a very few genuine friends left in the world.  Needless to say, China is flexing its military muscles and trying to be a world super power by spending tons of money to strengthen its armed forces.  The USA relationship with Russia is not going anywhere.  Basically, Middle-East is burning on a daily basis.  The USA can use India's help, being a friendly nation to Russia and to many of Muslim countries, finding a solution to some of the problems in that part of world.  This can be achieved only if the USA is willing to accommodate Indian concerns whether it is in the civil nuclear area or defense technology etc.  This relationship ought to be on a long term basis, without any politics involved, with the understanding that there will be no ditching of each other come what may.  Once that faith and belief are determined, the USA will have a solid force of strength to counter balance Chinese influence in that part of the world.  Also, one should not under estimate India's contacts and relationship with Russia which has been in existence since 1950s.  America can utilize that relationship to soften the current tension between the United States and Russia.  I would say the ball is in the court of the USA and it will be interesting to see how this ball is rolled in September when Mr. Modi will be talking to Mr. Obama on one-to-one basis.

Mr. Iqbal has listed all the facts starting from the birth of Pakistan to its demarcation and creation of Bangladesh.  One could not agree more than what the facts are.  However, I would like to blame the civilian and military authorities in Islamabad for all the troubles and turmoils Pakistanis are going through on a daily basis.  If the Pakistani leaders have followed the intent and purpose of what Mr. Jinnah had in mind before separating from India, Pakistan would have flourished internally and externally the same way India and now Bangladesh have been experiencing.  The intent was to create a secular state and not a state predicated on a contorted version of Islam which is what the military leaders have been practicing since the birth of Pakistan.  Unfortunately, the civil governments in Islamabad have no say in this matter.  Majority of Pakistani revenue and donations from external sources are being spent on the military and no consideration is given to educate the masses left them being the subservient to the military and landlords of Pakistan.  With this on-going ideology and spread of jihadi element in the country, one cann't see a better outcome for Pakistan in the long run.

The rift between Palestinians and Israelis, Hindus and Muslims on the Indian-Pakistan border, Sunis and Shias all over the world etc. seems like unsolvable problem precisely due to an ill-will and hatred built into the blood streams against each other.  Yes, lot of countries are trying their best to mediate to bring some type of sensible solution leading to a peaceful environment, but all in vain so far.  The reason it is becoming insurmountable task is because of their ideology, and hence, until that ideology of full of hate and ill-will is corrected, there is no possibility of seeing any improvement in the relationship of all these parties involved.  Unfortunately, there is another factor which is a big contributor to this on-going worldwide turmoil and that is the 'Petro-dollar'.  These Sheikhs instead of using their affluence for the uplift and betterment of human society, they invest their dollars in abetting, financing and training militants to spread anarchy in the world.  They do not want to spend their wealth to educate their subjects, instead they want them to remain uneducated, unaware of their rights and be subservient to the Sheikhs.  They dangle their dollars in front of these uneducated and brainwashed militants and use them to serve their own un-Islamic purpose.  These Sheikhs love these soldiers of Hamas, Hezbollas, LeT and JuM.  Even though the whole civilized western world has declared Hamas, LeT and JuM in Pakistan as terrorist organizations, still lot of 'Petro-dollars' are being funneled to these organizations by the Sheikhs.  These militant groups have sophisticated armaments, uniforms as well as other facilities which a normal army personnel need to operate.  Someone is buying this stuff for them - who else other than the Sheikhs.  The USA just sold $11 Billion of military equipment to Qatar - the prominent supporter of Hamas.  Where does one think it is going to end up with?  It is understandable that America wants to see its defense industry manufacturing operations running to keep up with the employment situation.  But is it not counter productive to maintaining peace in the world?  American diplomats have shuttle diplomacy between the warring nations to find solution to peace, but not analyzing the buyers of its military armament. Economy has precedence on peaceful environment - how sad.  In this writer's opinion, their are only two ways to bring peace to this world - one being a long range solution to change the ideology of fanatic Muslims ( which may or may not be achievable in our life time) and the other one is to forcefully occupy the source of 'Petro-dollars' and cut the financial outflow to these militants.  Right now these little battles are going on away from the borders of western nations, but if the civilized society does not wake up and remedy the situation, it will not be too far distant when you see the flares touching their borders also.  CHOICE IS YOURS.

The treatment Mr. Bhatkal is getting in the jail is very appropriate because every criminal needs to be treated predicated on his/her crime.  Mr. Bhatkal says his treatment is worse than the treatment provided to the animals.  He is right because that is what he deserves.  Mr. Bhatkal should know that animals do not kill innocent human beings, but by killing many innocent human beings through various heinous terrorists acts orchestrated by him, he has proven himself as an individual which is worse than animal.  Hence, his appropriate treatment in the jail.  His other complaint is that the jail authorities do not provide him food on a timely basis during his fast for Ramazan days.  Mr. Bhatkal ought to know that his faith in Allah is artificial.  Allah does not dictate anyone to kill innocent human beings.  Allah teaches dissemination of love and affection for all.  His fasting during Ramazan days is not going to please Allah due to his inhuamne acts in the society.  Therefore, this is not an excuse to get a better treatment in the jail.  Criminals are not needed in the society and tough punishment is the only way to eradicate these souls from this earth.  Mr. Bhatkal, you reap what you sow.

Mr. Qureshi's comments like many other politicians in UP are disgusting for couple of reasons; one being that it shows that he has no respect for the honor of female community and has given up the efforts  to eradicate this menace from the society and secondly, underestimating the power of Almighty God.  Mr. Governor, for your information, God can do anything and anything in a split of second.  But he has assigned this job to the human beings who are in power, like yourself, to take care of these heinous crimes from the society.  All it takes is a strict application of anti-rape law - a law which will be applicable to all equally irrespective of the criminal's status in the society or affiliation with any party.  Once proven guilty, a criminal should be put behind bar for life without parole and, unfortunately if victim's life is involved, a criminal ought to be hanged in public square to teach future criminals who are intending to pursue a similar crime.  Yes, it sounds barbaric, but that is the only way to eradicate this inhuman and degrading act from the society.  Needless to say, safety and security of females is of utmost importance for the safely and welfare of any house - safer each house becomes an extension of safer society. This writer is wondering if Mr. Qureshi can work on the project in the UP Assembly to pass a strict anti-rape law predicated on the above guidelines instead of giving up on this very important topic by making irresponsible statement?  I also wonder whether Mr. Qureshi will be making a similar statement if any of the female member of his house gets affected by this societal menace.  Mr. Qureshi is supposed to be a role model due to his high official position in the UP state.  Instead of portraying himself as the protector of all human causes, he is posing himself as a very irresponsible, incompetent and ineffective official - I wouldn't call him a leader.

I could not agree more than what this article is saying to the whole world specially to the Indian Muslims to stand up against this 6th century ideology of Islam.  As the article said, the main culprit is the Saudi family preaching Wahbism which needs to be eradicated.  Saudi government with its pertro-dollars is creating a worldwide problem of terrorism by mesmerizing innocent illiterate Muslim population.  I would like to add just one thing to this article, a suggestion which is that the western nations better wake up and leash the Saudi government's activities  

about abetting and financing the terrorist groups worldwide.  May be the time has come to isolate Saudi Arabia and occupy their oil fields and put these sheikhs back on the camels and let them roam around like vagabonds - a memory of 6th century.  Instead of utilizing their windfall petro-dollars affluence to the betterment of humanity, they are creating ill will and hatred in the world.  They don't deserve to be what they have.

How shameful it is that the legal authorities in Pakistan are inviting and encouraging a known militant Mr. Hafiz Saeed to speak to them as a Chief Guest.  As we all know that there is no pressure or restriction on his movement in Pakistan from any authority whether it is Pakistan's military, ISI, judicial system or even the civilian government in Islamabad.  Though he has been proven to be the main culprit in orchestrating 26/11 incident in Mumbai and a declared terrorist by the USA government, he is moving around in Pakistan at his own free will.  Needless to say that he has full support of whatever he does or says from all the civilian and military authorities in Pakistan.  Under these circumstances, the Indian government should not expect any sincere initiative to be taken to improve relationship between India and Pakistan by the Pakistani government irrespective of what Mr. Nawaz Sharif thinks of this topic.  Mr. Modi's government ought not to display any eagerness and extend an olive branch to Pakistan at all unless a terrorism is eradicated from the Pakistani territory.

This is one of the best decisions taken by the Supreme Court of India.  There ought to be one law of the land which applies equally to all citizens of India irrespective to one's religious faith and following.  It does not make sense to have a parallel court or Sharia law prevailing in India along with a national law per the provisions of an Indian Constitution.  However, this writer is not very happy with the flexibility shown by the Supreme Court's decision for the Muslim individuals to accept or not to accept the Sharia law in their personal affairs. This leaves still lot of authority and domination of mullahs over an individual to threaten him to abide by the Sharia Law.  The court should have been very clear in its judgement not to accept the Sharia Law at all by anyone living in India, and if anyone is punished predicated on the Sharia Law, the person responsible for announcing that punishment ought to be put behind bars for a long time.  Muslims ought to follow the same law which non-Muslims are following which means - not keeping 4 wives at the same time, no divorce by just saying 'Talaak' three times and no hand-outs for their Haj pilgrimage etc.  It is about time that the nation is run on one single law of the land which applies equally to all. 

It is good to know that finally the Pakistani government and its military authorities have decided to eliminate, as the army chief said, all terrorists from Pakistan.  Press reports also are referring to many of the cases where these Taliban soldiers are shaving their beard to disguise themselves in order to either flee or merged in a civilian crowd.  One wonders how the army personnel will find them to kill them to meet their objectives.  Also, this writer is curious to know when the Pakistani Army Chief refers to Taliban, is he also referring to other non-state actors like members of LeT and JuD etc.?  There are hundreds of militants groups in Pakistan with their training camps all over who are propping up future suicide bombers in Pakistan.  How is Pakistani army going to treat them and their on-going operations?  Pakistan might be thinking that these non-state organizations like LeT and JuD etc. will help them fight a religious and political war against India, but this writer has an opinion that the Pakistani establishments are operating on a wrong notion. They will never be successful in their mission.  India is a big country and killing a few Indians here and there is not going to wipe out India.  God forbid, if there is another scene like what happened in November 2008 in Mumbai, Pakistan is going to pay a very heavy price.  To avoid any untoward incident between India and Pakistan, it is prudent for the government in Islamabad and the military/ISI establishment to work towards forging amicable relationship instead of relying on the non-state actors like LeT and JuD to win a war against India.

dharambahl • a day ago

Chinese government is tightening the screws in the western province Xijiang on the Muslim community. Under the pretext of security, the government is telling the locals not to participate in their Ramadan fasting. How far they will be successful, only the time will tell, but the mere fact that such restrictions are being enforced is in violation of Muslims' religious rights. However, an astonishing fact is that there is no opposition shown by any of the Muslim countries especially in the Middle East. Are they afraid of China or just don't care of what happens to the Muslims in that part of the world? For whatever reasons may be, their silence on this issue leads one to believe that these Muslim leaders have a dual face when it comes to treatment of Muslims in the world. Just think of a reaction from the Muslim community if the USA had promulgated this prohibition and restriction for the Muslims not to participate in the Ramadan fasting. One could witness never ending anti-USA demonstration, destruction of property as well as anti-USA diplomatic maneuvering in the world. This writer wonders what the fundamentalist of Pakistan are thinking and what their reaction is about China's anti-Muslim policy. Are they really concerned or don't care for what happens to Muslim in China?

This new jihadi force of ISIS is an enigma in the Middle East.  When one looks at the type of arsenal and equipment these rebels use to fight the Iraqi forces, one wonders who is behind these jihadis financing their operations.  I have read and heard a few countries - kuwait, Qatar etc., a Sunis set of Muslim countries - abetting these jihadis.  If that is true, is there anything the western nations can do - diplomatically, economically and militarily - to put pressure on these financiers to stop these operations, because failing which will have a very dire consequences for the western nations.  Just imagine, if an Islamic State, as jihadis planned to declare, is born, where this wave of caliphate is going to end.  First of all, the world will witness a complete massacre of Shia community and then they will turn to the non-Muslims - Christians, Jews and Hindus etc.  Yes, it is true it will not happen overnight, but then it may become very costly - financially, economically as well as in the shape of innocent human lives - to overcome.  Is that what the western world is waiting for.  The best solution for Iraq is to establish a government in Baghdad which will have Sunis and other minorities included in the government with the understanding that these ISIS members will stop their operation and work together to run their lives.  If this is not doable at all for whatever reason, then this writer holds an opinion of decimating these jihadis from the roots once and for all.  IS THE WESTERN WORLD READY TO INITIATE AN ACTION NOW OR WAIT TO PAY A HIGHER PRICE LATER ON WHICH MAY BE TOO LATE AND TOO EXPENSIVE.

The situation created by ISIS in Iraq is very convoluted.  Mr. John Kerry is urging the Suni governments in the Middle-East to stop funding the Suni Jihadists and President Obama has sent a few hundred military advisors to Iraq to advise and solidify the Iraqi armed forces against the ISIS.  This all shows that even though Mr. Maliki's policies and actions have failed to maintain peace in Iraq, the US government is still helping Mr. Maliki with the hope that eventually a peaceful atmosphere can be restored there.  However, the way ISIS waive is moving towards Baghdad by conquering town after town, the probability of this expectation to be fulfilled is very low.  Also, it shows that the US policy in Iraq is going against the interest of Saudi Arabia.  Similarly, the US policy or lack thereof in Syria is not very much appreciated by the Saudis.  Does this scenario force one to conclude that the US policy in the Middle East run counter to Saudis' interest?  If so, what will happen to the oil price down the road and to the worldwide economy?  This writer understands the geopolitical situation in the Middle-East as respects to American interest.  But is it really essential for America to get involved in every nook and corner of the world wherever these Suni-Shia skirmishes take place?  Why cann't we leave the Sunis and Shias settle their own grievances in their own way and once the dust is settled, may be then the USA ought to concentrate on their foreign policy issues with the surviving government or ethnic group. The USA cann't be a police man for the whole world and, needless to say, the world has changed a lot since WWII.  Even small nations who used to shiver with the name of the United States don't care and have any respect for Americans.  Why may be because of our unnecessary interference in everybody's affair.  May be the time has come to give a respite to the foreign policy of this nation and see what happens.  By no means, this writer is suggesting to put your guards down.  This nation has lot of fire power to protect itself from any military eventuality and no country should even think of attacking this nation.  It is just another way of earning back respect from others.

It seems that under pressure from the Al-Queda led forces, Iraq's Prime Minister is begging for American support to save his regime.  Suni Muslims are marching towards Bhagdad and if their march is not stopped on a timely basis, they will run over the country which means a terrible future for the Shias in Iraq.  It is unfortunate that the Iraqi government did not agree to the American proposal to grant immunity to the US soldiers before American wound up their operation in Iraq.  I am not sure what Washington is contemplating about this situation, but as an observer of these political chess games, I must say that America should not take any hasty action and probe this situation thoroughly.  At the end of the day, if America decides to get involved, the USA must make sure that Iraq's Prime Minister signs MoU with full immunity to the US forces and any expense incurred by the US forces to protect his regime should be defrayed by the Iraqi government.  Also, there is no need to put American boots on the ground and spell American blood.  It must be an aerial protection with full financial compensation.