As of today, India is no more a republic. Under Narendra Modi India tends to be a one-party state ruled by extremist Hindu nationalists, in line with a Hitlerism mindset. That's why there is the growing apprehension about BJP-controlled India's expansionistic designs in the region, particularly in the context of Pakistan. India's army chief's remark that he is ready to "claim" Azad Kashmir is patently absurd. And then there is likelihood of an armed conflict between two nuclear powers. The other day Prime Minister Imran Khan warned that unresolved Kashmir is a ticking nuclear bomb, and asked the world powers not to underestimate perilous potential of the Modi mischief in occupied Jammu & Kashmir. And, there are early signs of his call being registered in the world capitals. The latest in that respect is the EU member-states' move to debate and vote on a resolution against India's annexation of Jammu & Kashmir in violation of the UN Security Council resolutions and the country's enforcement of an anti-Muslim citizenship law. The resolution, which is likely to be put to a vote later this week, has been moved by Renew Europe Group, which comprises liberal members from a number of member-states. Urging India to repeal the discriminatory amendments to its citizenship law the draft resolution says the new law "violates India's international obligations to prevent the deprivation of citizenship on the basis of race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin as enshrined in the ICCPR and other human rights treaties". The resolution also takes notice of violence at the Jawaharlal Nehru University where the "police witnessed the attack [on students by BJP goons] but refused to control and arrest the mob". Earlier this month, several diplomats from the EU had rejected an invitation by Indian authorities for a visit to occupied Jammu & Kashmir, saying they were not interested in a "guided" tour and wanted to meet people 'freely'. So far so good, but things must move at a quicker pace.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2020