Instable Leadership – India and Pakistan
The West appeases India and slams Pakistan. Sovereignty is means to a nation securing dignity.
South Asia, a region teeming with historical, political, and military tensions, continues to be a source of instability, with its future often shaped by the actions of two key actors: Narendra Modi’s administration in India and the high command of the Pakistan Army. For true stability to emerge, it is essential to address the troubling roles played by these two forces. Both actors are widely regarded as untrustworthy, their actions often exacerbating the region’s vulnerabilities. While the Indian government’s actions under Modi have repeatedly raised concerns, Pakistan’s military leadership—represented not by one individual, but by a collective mentality within the military hierarchy—poses its own set of challenges to peace. To counterbalance this instability, there is a pressing need for reform and a more balanced approach to governance in Pakistan. Among the available political figures, Imran Khan emerges as a central figure who could offer the necessary leadership and reforms to bring stability to both Pakistan and, by extension, the region.
Modi’s Government and the Shadow of Terrorism
Narendra Modi’s tenure as the Prime Minister of India has been marked by an increasing number of terrorist attacks, many of which have raised suspicions of false flag operations. Critics, including prominent voices like Arundhati Roy, have pointed out the unsettling timing of these attacks—often coinciding with critical moments in the electoral cycle. The Pahalgam attack, for instance, has become emblematic of this trend, with accusations that Modi’s government either orchestrated or allowed such incidents to take place for electoral gain. The attacks not only inflame tensions between India and Pakistan but also undermine the trust that both nations need to build towards peace.
Critics argue that Modi’s administration uses these attacks as a means to stoke nationalist fervor and maintain political momentum. This strategy, while effective in galvanizing a certain segment of the population, poses a significant threat to regional stability. The use of terrorism or the manipulation of security events for political advantage not only jeopardizes lives but also exacerbates the deep-seated animosities between India and Pakistan. For true peace to prevail in South Asia, Modi’s government must be held accountable for its role in this pattern of violence and political manipulation.
The Pakistan Army: A Leadership Crisis
While Modi’s government plays a disruptive role in South Asia, the problem in Pakistan runs much deeper. It is not just the figure of General Asim Munir that raises concern, but the entire class of generals within Pakistan’s military establishment. General Munir has earned a reputation for being unstable and erratic, a characterization that has raised alarms within both the domestic and international communities. However, to attribute Pakistan’s instability solely to him would be misleading. The collective mindset within Pakistan’s military leadership mirrors Munir’s own. This class of generals, many of whom have perpetuated constitutional violations and human rights abuses, maintains a deeply entrenched belief in their unassailable power and privilege.
The justification for these actions often comes from the military itself. Retired generals, who attempt to sway Pakistan’s political and military narrative, advise those currently in uniform to uphold the “rule of law.” However, these very same serving officers justify their actions, including the abrogation of the constitution and widespread human rights violations, by claiming that they represent a “new breed” of soldier. Their mentality is one of aggression and dominance, seeing themselves as the ultimate arbiters of Pakistan’s destiny, even if it comes at the cost of the country’s democratic ideals. This mindset must be reformed if Pakistan is ever to escape the cycle of military dominance that has plagued its political landscape.
Pahalgam Terrorist Attack Assessment – Proof is in the Pudding
There is no smoking gun proving Pahalgam was a false flag. However, the lack of transparent investigation, the timing with elections, media patterns, and past precedents strongly raise suspicion that:
- The narrative blaming Pakistan was premature or politically motivated.
Within hours of the attack, Indian officials publicly blamed Pakistan-backed groups, without presenting forensic or intelligence evidence. No group officially claimed responsibility for many days. Normally, Pakistan-based groups like JeM or Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) claim credit immediately for attacks they organize.
Strategic Calculations in Washington – The Mood
U.S. values India as a counterweight to China — so publicly, they avoid criticizing Indian claims harshly. Washington is getting sick of getting dragged into India-Pakistan standoff without solid evidence.
- State Department Press Briefing (April 24, 2025), spoke person Tammy Bruce,
When questioned about Pakistan’s alleged involvement, Bruce responded:
“We are in touch with both India and Pakistan and urge both sides to work toward a responsible solution.”
- Intelligence Agencies (CIA, DIA)
Should be Skeptical. Data driven organizations. They want hard evidence. The attack is widely covered without evidence.
Both agencies typically do not release detailed analyses or public comments. Classified briefings are publicly not available.
- Think Tanks (Carnegie, CSIS, Brookings, CFR)
The first three have not weighed in on Pahalgam attack.
@CFR_org
Manjari Chatterjee Miller, Senior Fellow, noted:
“The latest attack on civilian tourists in Kashmir has been one of the worst attacks in the region since 2019, resulting in a tit-for-tat measure between India and Pakistan.”
Miller’s article suggests, The Resistance Front has taken responsibility of attack and the remainder narrative mentions of Pakistan—a smear campaign without intellectual value.
- More hawkish/pro-India Think Tanks (Hudson, Heritage)
Supports India generally. No specific quote from Hudson. Heritage through Jeff Smith, is calling for accountability if Pahalgam is linked to Pakistan.
The Need for Reform: Imran Khan as the Key to Stability
In this context, Imran Khan presents a promising solution. While his tenure as Prime Minister was not without its own challenges, Khan’s leadership offers the potential for much-needed reforms within the Pakistan Army. His vision of a modern, more democratic Pakistan includes the reining in of the military’s undue influence over political affairs. Khan’s commitment to fighting corruption and his calls for greater accountability within the armed forces could set the foundation for a reformed military that respects the constitution and human rights.
Moreover, Khan’s populist appeal and his commitment to reforms resonate with large segments of the Pakistani population who are disillusioned with both the political and military elites. He offers a different path from the authoritarian tendencies of past leaders, focusing instead on a more inclusive and accountable system of governance. For South Asia to find stability, it is critical that Pakistan moves away from its military-dominated political system. Imran Khan, with his reform agenda, represents the best hope for ensuring that Pakistan embraces a future grounded in democratic values rather than military control.
The Bigger Picture: Regional Stability
The stability of South Asia hinges on the willingness of both India and Pakistan to overcome their historical enmities and adopt policies of peace and cooperation. The first step in this process requires the removal of disruptive elements within each country’s leadership. For India, this means holding the Modi government accountable for its role in promoting an atmosphere of distrust and fear, often through the manipulation of security incidents. For Pakistan, it means addressing the deeply ingrained militarism within the country’s political system and pushing for reform in the Pakistan Army.
The region’s future cannot be left in the hands of untrustworthy leaders who view power as a means to manipulate public sentiment and further their own political agendas. Modi and the Pakistan Army high command are key players in this struggle, and their actions must be scrutinized and reformed. Imran Khan, through his commitment to democratic reforms and military accountability, offers a path forward—a path that, if followed, could foster a new era of stability in South Asia.
US Congressional Efforts to Address Gen. Asim Munir’s Leadership: A Focus on Democracy and Human Rights Violations
In recent years, there has been increasing concern in the U.S. Congress over the leadership of General Asim Munir, the head of Pakistan’s military, due to his role in undermining democratic processes and violating human rights. The growing instability within Pakistan, exacerbated by the actions of its military leadership, has led U.S. lawmakers to take steps to address these concerns and hold Munir accountable.
Pakistan Democracy Act
One significant legislative initiative is the proposed “Pakistan Democracy Act,” introduced by Representatives Joe Wilson and Jimmy Panetta. This bill calls for sanctions against General Munir, citing alleged political repression and human rights violations under his leadership. The act seeks to impose visa bans and asset freezes on individuals deemed responsible for suppressing democracy in Pakistan, with General Munir specifically named due to his role in the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and the suppression of political opposition.
Breaking
Dr. Shahbaz Gil revealed that during the early April 2025, meeting with Rep. Jack Bergman, General Munir asked Bergman to prevent the “Pakistan Democracy Act” from being brought to a vote in Congress. Does Munir’s request suggest any commitments or promises made to Rep. Bergman—like deals on minerals? The delegation attended the Pakistan Mineral Investment Forum 25 (PMIF25) in Islamabad.
Additionally, the issue has garnered attention from other U.S. lawmakers, including Rep. Jack Bergman and Rep. Greg Casar. Both Bergman and Casar have raised alarms about the potential for further human rights violations and military overreach, urging the U.S. government to reassess its relationship with Pakistan and take a firmer stance on advocating for democratic reforms.
Rep. Jack Bergman, a Republican from Michigan and a member of the House Armed Services Committee, has been vocal in his criticism of General Munir’s actions. Following a bipartisan congressional delegation’s visit to Pakistan, Bergman reaffirmed his call for the release of Imran Khan, emphasizing that a strong U.S.-Pakistan partnership should be based on shared values such as democracy and human rights. His statement underscores the importance of these principles in fostering bilateral relations.
Their efforts come in response to reports of military-led crackdowns on political dissent, unconstitutional actions, and the widespread violation of citizens’ rights under General Munir’s regime. These concerns, coupled with Pakistan’s ongoing political instability, have prompted U.S. lawmakers to consider measures to apply pressure on Pakistan’s leadership.
While these efforts may not immediately result in tangible political change, they signify a growing bipartisan concern in the U.S. Congress about the impact of Gen. Asim Munir’s leadership on regional stability and democracy. The push for accountability reflects a broader commitment to human rights and democratic governance in U.S. foreign policy, especially in the context of Pakistan’s military-led government under General Munir.Top of Form
The growing bipartisan concern in the U.S. Congress regarding General Asim Munir’s leadership reflects a commitment to upholding democratic values and human rights in international relations. Through legislative actions like the “Pakistan Democracy Act” and public advocacy by lawmakers such as Rep. Jack Bergman, there is a clear call for accountability and reform in Pakistan’s political landscape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, for the region to achieve lasting peace, it is imperative that both India and Pakistan embark on a journey of introspection, reform, and cooperation. The existing leadership dynamics, embodied by Modi and the Pakistan Army high command, represent significant barriers to this goal. Imran Khan, with his reformist vision and dedication to change, may hold the key to a more stable and peaceful South Asia. The international community must support these efforts, ensuring that both nations take the necessary steps to build a future defined by mutual respect and cooperation.
Bio: Mian Hameed is the author of MANIPULATION OF THE MIND: Our Children and Our Policy at Peril. He is a student of the U.S. and South Asia foreign policy. My articles do not present the conventional thoughts of the mainstream media. To read my work, click the Home link below.