Pakistan’s response to the Pahalgam terror attacks that claimed the lives of 26 people has been insensitive, churlish and framed in a manner that is detrimental to the stability of the region, particularly its own people and economy. Initially, Islamabad refused to acknowledge the incident as an act of terrorism and its defence minister Khawaja Asif described the attack as part of some imaginary “revolution” against the Indian State. India has so far restrained itself from military action but has sent a clear message to Islamabad – and Rawalpindi, the headquarters of the Pakistan army – that Pakistan should not expect a free run while nurturing an ecosystem that breeds terrorism. (In fact, products of this ecosystem are wreaking havoc within Pakistan now). The decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), along with a slew of diplomatic actions, is a clear signal that India has more options than the conventional military one that can hurt Pakistan. However, the reckless Pakistani State has preferred to remain........

© hindustantimes