An Ideological Lens on Pakistan
A brief reflection shaped by historical events, including the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, as well as ongoing geopolitical developments and recent statements.
I view Pakistan not merely as a neighboring country with which India has disputes, but as a state whose ideological foundation continues to influence its strategic thinking. Unlike most modern nations, Pakistan was created explicitly on a religious basis—rooted in the Islamic declaration of faith (Kalma). This origin, in my view, has had long-term consequences for how it defines itself in relation to India.
Over the decades, this ideological framing has often translated into hostility toward India, sometimes expressed directly and at other times through proxy narratives. A recent example is the statement by former Pakistani diplomat Abdul Basit, who suggested that if Pakistan were unable to respond directly to a stronger adversary like the United States, India could become the default target. To me, this reflects not just strategic thinking, but a deeper mindset where India is seen as a perpetual adversary.
My concern is not limited to geopolitics alone. I see a pattern—historical and contemporary—where communities like Hindus and Jews have often been at the receiving end of Islamist aggression in different parts of the world. While I do not claim that all Muslims think alike, I believe that certain ideological strands, when combined with state power, can create persistent hostility.
I also recognize that I am not speaking from a strictly religious standpoint. I am personally agnostic. Yet, I feel a strong civilizational and cultural connection to Hindus, and a sense of solidarity with Jews, given the historical experiences both communities have faced. I also feel concern for little children growing up in any hardline religious environment, where rigid interpretations limit personal freedom and development.
From this perspective, my view of Pakistan is shaped not just by current events, but by its founding principles, its strategic posture, and the narratives that continue to emerge from within it. Whether one agrees or disagrees, this is the lens through which I interpret its actions and statements.