Former Ambassador Soni Criticizes Pakistan's Regional Conduct

Former Indian Ambassador Vidya Bhushan Soni has launched a scathing critique of Pakistan's handling of current tensions with India, describing the nation as a 'failed state' incapable of effective response amid internal turmoil. He lamented Pakistan's failure to grasp lessons from the past and questioned its readiness to act, emphasizing that the civilian government lacks control while extremist elements dominate.

Soni expressed alarm over Pakistan's fragmented governance, noting the Army Chief's statements as being out of touch with ground realities. He questioned how a country in such disarray could provoke regional tensions, referencing an incident in Pahalgam—a peaceful tourist locale—as a misguided move by Pakistan in the onset of tourist season.

In contrast, Soni highlighted India's calculated, surgical response targeting only terrorist camps, underscoring the precision of Indian actions aimed solely at averting threats without civilian collateral damage. He stressed that India's actions were not provocative but necessary to counteract acts of aggression on Indian soil, advocating for measures that prevent recurrence of such incidents.

Soni commended the professionalism of the Indian armed forces, stressing their disciplined approach in contrast to Pakistan's fragmented leadership. Further, he extolled India's growing global influence, acknowledging its economic prowess and diplomatic acumen, which have elevated India's stature on the world stage.

Concluding, Soni reiterated that India's response was measured and professional, aligning with its national security commitments—a response that garners national pride in the defense forces' conduct.

(With inputs from agencies.)