FridayOL

New Delhi is intensifying pressure on Pakistan, questioning its reluctance to hand over wanted terrorists like Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Hafiz Saeed, especially after the US successfully extradited Tahawwur Rana. India's Ambassador to Israel, JP Singh, has voiced strong concerns, advocating for a unified global front against terrorism and highlighting the apparent double standards in dealing with terrorist suspects.

Singh's remarks, made during a recent interview, directly contrasted the US action against Rana, who was convicted in connection with a plot to attack Indian consulates in the US, with Pakistan's continued protection of Lakhvi and Saeed. The US extradition of Rana demonstrates the possibility and importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism, a point Singh emphasized.

The Lakhvi Question: A Lingering Wound

Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, the operational commander of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, remains free in Pakistan despite India's repeated requests for his extradition. The Mumbai attacks, which claimed the lives of over 160 people, including foreign nationals, were orchestrated by the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a Pakistan-based terrorist organization. Lakhvi's continued freedom is a constant source of frustration for India and a significant obstacle to improved bilateral relations.

Hafiz Saeed: A Sanctioned Figure

Hafiz Saeed, the founder of LeT and a designated terrorist by both the US and the UN, also enjoys relative freedom in Pakistan. Although Saeed has been placed under house arrest at times, these restrictions have often been short-lived and have not prevented him from continuing to incite violence and hatred. India has consistently called for his arrest and prosecution.

The Call for International Coalition

Singh's call for an international coalition against terrorism underscores the need for a more coordinated and robust global response to the threat. He argued that no country should be allowed to harbor terrorists or provide them with safe haven. The extradition of Rana, he stated, should serve as a precedent for other nations to follow. “If the US can extradite Rana, why can’t Pakistan hand over Lakhvi and Hafiz Saeed?” Singh questioned, highlighting the inconsistency in international approaches.

Pakistan's Response and Challenges

Pakistan has consistently denied allegations of supporting terrorism and claims to be taking steps to crack down on terrorist groups operating within its borders. However, critics argue that these efforts are often superficial and that Pakistan's legal system is frequently manipulated to protect known terrorists. The country's judiciary and law enforcement agencies face significant challenges in effectively prosecuting terrorism cases, often due to weak evidence and political interference.

Implications for India-Pakistan Relations

The ongoing dispute over Lakhvi and Saeed continues to cast a long shadow over India-Pakistan relations. Until Pakistan takes concrete steps to address India's concerns and bring these terrorists to justice, trust between the two countries will remain elusive, hindering any meaningful progress towards peace and stability in the region. Singh’s statement serves as a stark reminder of the unresolved issues and the urgent need for Pakistan to demonstrate its commitment to combating terrorism.

The international community's pressure on Pakistan to act is expected to intensify, especially given the US extradition of Rana. India hopes that this will create a window of opportunity for resolving the Lakhvi and Saeed issue and paving the way for a more constructive dialogue.