GS Question

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established in 1985 with the objective of promoting regional cooperation among its member states, which include India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. However, increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and Pakistan's growing interference in the internal affairs of other member states have hampered the progress and future prospects of SAARC. Here are some examples:

1. Cross-border terrorism in India: Pakistan has been accused of supporting and harboring terrorist groups, such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, which have carried out numerous terrorist attacks in India. One of the most significant examples is the 2008 Mumbai attacks, where Pakistani terrorists targeted various locations in Mumbai, resulting in the deaths of more than 160 people. Such acts of terrorism not only disrupt peace and stability in the region but also create an atmosphere of mistrust and hostility between India and Pakistan, hindering the cooperation and progress of SAARC.

2. Interference in internal affairs: Pakistan has been criticized for interfering in the internal affairs of other member states, particularly in Afghanistan and India. Pakistan has been accused of providing sanctuary and support to Taliban insurgents operating in Afghanistan, which undermines efforts to stabilize the war-torn country. Similarly, Pakistan has been involved in cross-border infiltration and supporting separatist groups in Indian-administered Kashmir, which has led to tensions and conflicts between India and Pakistan. Such interference undermines the principles of non-interference and respect for sovereignty, crucial for the future success of SAARC.

3. Strained bilateral relations: The strained bilateral relations between India and Pakistan have had a direct impact on the functioning of SAARC. On various occasions, India has boycotted SAARC summits or scaled down its participation due to cross-border terrorist attacks originating from Pakistan. For instance, India boycotted the 2016 SAARC Summit in Islamabad following the Uri attack, where Pakistani terrorists targeted an Indian Army base, resulting in the deaths of 19 soldiers. These incidents not only disrupt the regional cooperation within SAARC but also damage the credibility and effectiveness of the organization itself.

4. Failed initiatives: The conflicting interests and mistrust between India and Pakistan have often resulted in failed initiatives and inability to implement decisions within SAARC. For example, initiatives such as the SAARC Motor Vehicles Agreement, aimed at enhancing connectivity and trade among member states, have been stalled due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. The failure to implement such initiatives further undermines the relevance and future prospects of SAARC as a regional cooperation platform.

In conclusion, the increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in the internal affairs of member states by Pakistan have severely impacted the future of SAARC. These factors have not only strained bilateral relations but also hindered the organization's ability to achieve its objectives of regional cooperation and development.