New Delhi, March 16: In a candid discussion with renowned podcaster Lex Fridman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on India's complex and painful relationship with Pakistan. He recounted the traumatic history of the subcontinent's partition, which led to immense bloodshed. PM Modi expressed disappointment over Pakistan’s decision to wage a proxy war against India rather than seeking peaceful coexistence.
Recalling the devastating aftermath of partition, PM Modi described the arrival of bloodied, wounded, and dead people on trains from Pakistan, a sight that deeply affected the Indian populace. He emphasized that despite the initial hope for peace, Pakistan chose violence and terror, continuing its proxy war against India.
The Prime Minister pointed out that Pakistan’s path of terrorism, rooted in ideology, had global consequences. He cited the example of Osama bin Laden, who found refuge in Pakistan, and noted that the country had become a hotspot for terrorism that affected not just India but the world. PM Modi called on Pakistan’s leaders to abandon state-sponsored terrorism and questioned the future they envisioned for their nation under the influence of lawless forces.
Reflecting on his attempts at fostering peace, PM Modi shared his invitation to Pakistan’s then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to his swearing-in ceremony, as well as his personal visit to Lahore in the pursuit of better relations. However, each effort was met with hostility, leaving PM Modi with a deep sense of regret. He expressed hope that Pakistan’s leaders would eventually choose the path of peace and that the people of Pakistan, who also suffer from terrorism, would long for a more peaceful future.
On a lighter note, when asked about the cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan, PM Modi emphasized the unifying power of sports. He refrained from taking sides but humorously pointed out that the recent match had made the outcome clear.
PM Modi’s reflections were a mixture of sorrow, determination, and hope for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. ( With ANI Input)
