Indo-Pak tensions: Former BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta has questioned the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, which was announced by US President Donald Trump via a social media post. “After a long night of talks mediated by the United States, I am pleased to announce that India and Pakistan have agreed to a full and immediate ceasefire. Congratulations to both countries on using common sense and great intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” read the statement by Trump. 

Dasgupta outlined two reasons why, in his opinion, the ceasefire “hasn’t gone down well in India”. The first reason he shared was the US announcing that it brokered the ceasefire, rather than either of the countries directly involved. 

Second, he said, is because Pakistan view attacks against India as “virtuous”, even though India sees them as acts of war or terrorism. 

ALSO READ

Taking to his X (formerly known as Twitter) account, Dasgupta, who is also a journalist, wrote, a few minutes back: “This ceasefire/‘understanding’ hasn’t gone down well in India for (at least) 2 reasons.”

“It was peremptorily announced by Trump, who suddenly appeared out of nowhere & pronounced his verdict. 2) It is clear that Pakistan still sees terror strikes against Bharat as a virtuous act, even if it is regarded as an act of war,” he added. 

He also agreed with a post from Ashok Malik, Partner and Chair of the India Practice at the DC-based The Asia Group. Malik said, “Calls for an ‘off-ramp’ or ‘de-escalation’ are all very well, but Gen Munir would want these on his terms,” before adding, “A de-escalation that doesn’t work for him — the current situation doesn’t — risks his job.”

ALSO READ

Malik also expressed that “de-escalation has now become a function of the Pakistan army’s internal politics”.

“Very succinctly expressed. We now know the inspiration behind the de-escalate posts emanating from within India,” Dasgupta wrote while quoting Malik’s post.