A few Conservative MPs with razor-thin majorities in high Pakistani origin resident constituencies have discovered Kashmir. They are the front men of Conservative Friends of Pakistan. The Pakistani High Commission in London reading this may not be so self-congratulatory when they read on.
The narrative doesn't change; they want it to. It's a bit like trying to talk up Russia. Pakistan is remembered for statements like this made about it at the United Nations, "The words used today at this great Assembly by Pakistan's leader demean the very essence of the United Nations. For a nation that is deeply buried in medievalism, it is understandable that the tenets of a modern civilized society such as peace, dialogue and diplomacy are farfetched."
India has changed its position on Kashmir. Kashmir is an internal matter for India, and the only bilateral issue with Pakistan is when it is going to vacate territories it occupies in breach of UN resolutions.
This problem that Pakistan's leaders have of not capturing the global narrative positively was highlighted to me when I met former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. She was on a panel for the BBC, and I was part of a 20 strong audience from all perspectives. The issue was about nuclear arms, and the event happened a couple of decades ago.
I made some point about India having a totalitarian communist nuclear neighbour over one shoulder and a military dictatorship also nuclear over the other.
She must have liked the point, as she was trying to regain power, and asked me over in the break. The first thing she asked, "where are you from Mr. Patel?" To which I replied, "Leeds, but I went to the same University as you."
She persisted, and I conceded with glee, "India". She never spoke to me again after that. Her party was on the look out for media faces who could make an eloquent case. They lack that to this day.
The Pakistani High Commission always manages to bring the same crazy looking traditionalist men to the fore to represent them on rallies and marches. Now, they have some MPs to do their bidding.
From confidential letters I have seen to the Conservative Party hierarchy, these MPs will be neutered and neutralised.
Doubtless, after reading this, the Pakistani High Commission will approach the young professional Pakistani face to advocate its position. Might I suggest those individuals endorse a liberal, secular democracy, where religion is not a constitutional mandate?
I am sure the descendants of Jinnah, who are Indian and remained proudly so and became billionaires thanks to India, would appreciate it.
Alpesh Patel
www.PoliticalAnimal.me
