India-Pakistan relations: War is never the answer, but leadership must reinforce that truth

“Nobody wants war” is conventional wisdom. But it takes stellar leadership to continually remind people that war is never in anyone’s interest.

After the Pahalgam terror attack, in which 28 innocent tourists were killed, India was justifiably outraged. India has long been one of the worst victims of terrorism. It’s a grim litany of pain, marked by lives lost and dates etched in our collective memory—most notably, 26/11 in Mumbai, where we lost 170 people.

Subsequently, military installations and our soldiers—from Pathankot to Pulwama—have been targeted. But attacking tourists crossed a significant red line. India wanted justice.

I spoke with many people living along the international border across Indian-administered Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan — regions that have recently endured heavy shelling, drone attacks, and gunfire. The mood there was sombre, tinged with fear, yet remarkably stoic. The common man, especially those in the border states who bore the brunt of India’s partition in 1947, belong to a truly special, courageous breed. They are prepared to make sacrifices that would daunt most of us.

“We’ll see what happens. Enough of these pinpricks. Look at what our soldiers face 24/7. Now we can also do our bit,” sums up the collective sentiment from Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan.

One thing is clear: Mahatma Gandhi is considered the greatest Indian who ever lived, revered for leading India to independence with the weapon of non-violence. But non-violence no longer appeals to many Indians today—impatient, angry, and outraged at the unending attacks against our country.

Perhaps this shift in national mood began decisively after the creation of Bangladesh. I wasn’t born then, but today there is a collective awareness that Indians are a peaceful, tolerant people. We are a status quo power, not a country that covets another’s territory. The world must respect our red lines when it comes to terror and attacks on Indian soil. Our professional army is deeply respected and loved by every Indian.

Another important shift is the growing sense of national identity among Kashmiris. Pahalgam was a turning point—a moment when Kashmiris collectively mourned the death of innocent civilians. Kashmir has significantly benefited from being integrated with mainstream India. Young Kashmiris are now travelling across the country to study in colleges, medical and engineering schools. They return with a new sense of possibility—of being part of a nation as vast and diverse as a continent.

The peace dividend in the valley is tangible. Tourism has surged. Local industries like shawl-making, papier-mâché, and carpet weaving are flourishing. The opening of new hotels and restaurants has created major economic opportunities. Locals don’t want a return to the dark days of curfews, terror attacks, and a suffocating military presence.

This new mood reflects confidence in an India that is on the rise—economically strong, prosperous, and united. Global economic currents are working in our favour, and our vast domestic market is unlocking opportunities like never before.

There is growing realisation that we must sharpen our focus on the economy. A strong, risen India is the best response to terrorism. That sentiment must be communicated—and championed—by mature, visionary leadership. Ultimately, it is the only answer.