Abstract
Ajay Bisaria’s book Anger Management is a distinctive work that discusses India–Pakistan diplomacy through the lens of those involved in its implementation. It delves into the history of bilateral diplomacy starting from 1947, analysing the significant events of each decade, including military operations, diplomatic achievements and setbacks. The recurring theme is the effort to engage in productive dialogues, often disrupted by periods of conflict and violence, leading to numerous instances of optimism followed by disappointment.
Aside from its scholarly approach and deep understanding of diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan, the book stands out for its comprehensive storytelling approach on multiple levels. First, it covers the Indo-Pak diplomatic interactions extensively. Second, it delves into the internal dynamics of both countries, particularly not only focusing on Pakistan but also aligning with the diplomatic narrative within India. Third, it explores the global power dynamics that influence the relationship between the two nations. This multi-level analysis provides readers with a holistic perspective on the evolving relationship and associated developments.
Bisaria’s insightful analysis highlights that the Indo-Pak relationship is primarily shaped by one dominant factor: Pakistan’s pursuit of a distinct identity based on territorial and security concerns. Pakistan has shouldered the additional responsibility of forging an identity separate from India’s, as exemplified by Jinnah’s decision to celebrate Independence on 14 August instead of 15 August, symbolising Pakistan’s unique birth away from India’s midnight hour. Regrettably, this choice coincided with an auspicious night in the Islamic calendar, known as the ‘night of destiny’, suggesting that Pakistan’s fate might have been more favourable had Jinnah not altered the date.
In my view, there was an additional underlying factor influencing events. The movement leading to the establishment of Pakistan stemmed from a sense of insecurity among a segment of the Muslim elite in northern India, who perceived themselves as a minority group. This insecurity did not stem from numerical considerations, as they had always been a minority, but rather from the diminishing power following the decline of the Mughal Empire and the increasing influence of the British. The erosion of authority, combined with the introduction of democratic governance based on equal voting rights, sparked concerns about potential permanent subordination to the Hindu majority.
Therefore, Jinnah and the Muslim League rejected the democratic principle of one-person, one-vote, fearing that the Hindu majority would overwhelm them at the polls. They advocated for parity or equal representation in electoral rights for the Muslim minority, alongside the Hindu majority electorate. The Muslim League believed that without this additional weight, Muslims would be at risk of being deprived of their political rights. This demand formed the essence of the case for Pakistan. Since 1947, this has evolved into a persistent pursuit of parity between India and Pakistan.
Bisaria emphasises a significant observation that, alongside the key figures leading the diplomacy between India and Pakistan, structural elements have also wielded considerable influence. He pinpoints the principal structural issue in the relationship as the Pakistan army’s deep-seated fear and suspicion regarding India.
The book underscores a fundamental flaw in Pakistan’s approach: the absence of innovative strategies concerning Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). In 1947, the Pakistani army sent ‘raiders’ into J&K; in 1965, they utilised ‘infiltrators’; and in 1999, they deployed army personnel disguised as mujahideen in Kargil. Both in 1947 and 1965, Pakistan made a critical mistake by assuming that Kashmir was an easily obtainable prize. The military repeated this misjudgement during the Kargil conflict, aiming to seize border territory within the confines of a Kashmir-focused conflict and to prompt India into negotiations by garnering fresh international attention.
The book presents intriguing insights, such as Sri Prakash, India’s inaugural High Commissioner to Pakistan, proposing a straightforward solution for J&K out of frustration: handing over the territory to Pakistan. This suggestion led to a reprimand from Pandit Nehru. Another revelation is from the 1965 war, where the Indian mission in Karachi was uncertain if a state of war existed between the two countries. When they inquired with the Pakistan Foreign Office, they were told that the matter would be referred to higher authorities for a response. Additionally, during the same conflict, the Pakistani foreign secretary summoned the Indian High Commissioner and labelled the Indian leadership as ‘rabid Hindu leaders’ and ‘Hindu fascists’. This historical context sheds light on the ongoing Pakistani tendency to label India as ‘Hindu India’ or ‘fascist Hindu India’, indicating that this perception is not recent and has deep roots dating back decades.
What occurred during the Balakot airstrike? What was the state in Pakistan when India’s Parliament chose to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution? Is peace achievable between the two nations? All these questions are addressed in the book.
Looking ahead, Bisaria speculates on the potential developments in 2047. He outlines three overarching scenarios: continuity of current dynamics, cautious optimism and cautious pessimism. The first scenario suggests ongoing tensions with intermittent efforts to normalise relations. The second scenario envisions Pakistan transitioning toward a more typical state, which could pave the way for a normalised relationship, if not a friendly one. The third scenario foresees escalating tensions between the two countries, with substantial risks of heightened conflict or even nuclear catastrophe.
Overall, this book is truly outstanding. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Indo-Pak relations, as it provides a thorough and insightful account and analysis of everything that has transpired since 1947.
The fundamental essence of the relationship between India and Pakistan is that achieving normalcy is contingent upon Pakistan acknowledging and accepting the reality and existence of India. While Bisaria’s work is otherwise excellent, it overlooks this crucial aspect. He does not express this point with the necessary starkness and clarity, which is essential for it to be reiterated and internalised until it is fully understood.