Hardly have the two neighbouring countries spent an year in tranquility and harmony since the split of sub-continent. Both India and Pakistan continue to drag their differences already deep-rooted to the present day. The widespread conflict encircling multidimensional clashes over ideology, culture, religion, language and political strategy led to the division of the once mighty subcontinent. The two states presently exist in stalemate after arriving a number of times at the brink of war and materializing it a couple of times. It was only a decade long ago when eventually both claimed to have acquired nuclear technology and hence brought it affront as a deterrent to the conventional war. The disputes between the two states can be categorized under three heads:

1. Territorial Disputes
2. Water Disputes
3. Miscellaneous Clashes

Under the territorial disputes, of the vital significance is Kashmir of course, which is as old as the day of physical demarcation between the two nations. It pushed the two states to war six decades ago and remains a flashpoint to date. Among other territorial disputes, Sir Creek and Siachin have been strongly sensitive to irk either side and provoke on aggression.

The water disputes also come inherited with the formation of new independent federation within subcontinent. An arbitration by world bank led to the Indus Water Basin Treaty in 1960 which harmonised the situation by dividing rights to the waters between two states. The recent hegemonic desgins of India, what is perceived by many critics as 'water aggression' towards Pakistan, is a major irritant in the bilateral relations. The reports show that India is considering over 42 projecting to be constructed over Pakistani waters that enter into its territory from Indian held Kashmir, with twelve projects already executed. The most significant and affecting Pakistan among all projects are Kishan-Ganga Dam, Baghliar Dam and Urik plant, where the first one is being constructed at Neelam Valley which will cause diversion in flow of water thus depriving Pakistan of nearly 7000 Cusecs of water each day.

Apart from the most severe contentious issues, there exist mistrust, which derives both states point finger at eachother over clandestine role being played which aims at disintegration as well as intrusion in state affairs by backing the separatist movements in both countries. Currently, both the states vie for a greater role in Afghanistan as a precedent to US troops expected exit in July-11.

Attempts have been made times and again to address the sensitivities of eachother. A recent development in this regard is seretary level talks between the two states to quell mistrust and open way for the Foreign Minister level talks in the coming July. One hopes the two states and their leadership realize the need to peacefully co-exist with strong political, economic and social ties that may last for generations to come.

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This is the most precise piece I could write on a very lenghty and scrappy issue. I would welcome comments, censures, remarks and constructive criticism on the above piece.

Regards,