Heightened Terror Threat in Punjab, Yunus and Shehbaz Sharif Discuss 1971 Issues in Cairo

 Terrorist groups, often collaborating with overseas-based gangsters, are posing a significant challenge to the Punjab Police. This resurgence of activity is particularly concerning for a state that endured a decade of militancy and is still recovering from its lasting effects. The targeting of police stations and posts in the Majha region, an area susceptible to cross-border smuggling of weapons, explosives, and drugs, represents a blatant attempt to undermine law enforcement morale and escalate tensions within the state.

Foreign Involvement and Pro-Khalistan Activity

According to senior police officials, these activities are attributed to pro-Khalistan groups supported by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Individuals based in Germany and other Western countries are also deeply involved, as evidenced by the recent arrest of three members of the Khalistan Zindabad Force terror module and the dismantling of an inter-state arms trafficking network.

Lessons from Past Attacks and the Need for Vigilance

Two decades after suppressing militancy in the state, the Punjab Police were forced to confront renewed threats with attacks on the Dinanagar police station in Gurdaspur district in July 2015 and the Pathankot airbase just five months later. These incidents served as a stark reminder of the constant threat posed by anti-India elements. The current surge in terror-related activities is another urgent call to action, demanding increased vigilance and closer collaboration between the state police and central agencies such as the Border Security Force (BSF) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Continued Threat of Extremism and the Police Response

The recent assassination attempt on former Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal outside the Golden Temple underscores the fact that violent extremism remains a threat in Punjab. The remnants of radicalism persist, with ongoing efforts to revive the Khalistan movement. The responsibility lies with the police to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety and security of the public.

Yunus and Shehbaz Sharif Discuss 1971 Issues in Cairo

Bangladesh has reiterated its call for Pakistan to address the unresolved issues from 1971, aiming to foster a more positive relationship for future generations. This discussion took place between Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during the D-8 Summit in Cairo.

Key Points from the Meeting:

1971 Issues: Yunus emphasized the need to settle historical grievances, stating that these issues have repeatedly resurfaced and hindered progress. He urged for a resolution "once and for all."

Pakistan's Stance: Sharif acknowledged the 1974 tripartite agreement between Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India as a means of resolution but expressed willingness to discuss any other outstanding concerns.

Regional Cooperation: Both leaders discussed the revival of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), with Sharif suggesting the possibility of hosting a summit.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties: The two leaders agreed on enhancing trade, commerce, and cultural exchanges. Sharif expressed a desire to strengthen ties, referring to Bangladesh as a "brother-in-country."

Facilitation of Trade: Sharif thanked Yunus for facilitating trade and travel, including easing inspection requirements for consignments from Pakistan.

Sharif also extended an invitation to Yunus to visit Pakistan, highlighting the importance of improving air travel for Pakistani passengers to Bangladesh.