The Geopolitical Landscape in Afghanistan and its Impact on India - An Analysis

The All India Radio Newsonair's daily programme, AIR Spotlight, serves as a platform for distinguished panellists to explore critical issues. This discussion can prove to be immensely beneficial for those preparing for the IAS exam . Today, we delve into the geopolitical dynamics in Afghanistan and their repercussions for India.

Panel Members:

1. T C A Raghavan, Ex-Ambassador
2. Simran Sodhi, Veteran Journalist

Background:

Afghanistan's geopolitical state has been thrown into disarray with the recent Taliban takeover.

Current Scenario in Afghanistan:

• The present condition in Afghanistan can be attributed to internal conflicts, Pakistan's backing, and the manner in which the US exited the country.
• Besides Pakistan, China has also nurtured a positive relationship with the Taliban . A Taliban delegation even paid a visit to China in the past.
• The Taliban's ascension to power in Afghanistan has been advantageous for Pakistan.
• However, it's worth noting that the landscape of international relations is ever-evolving, and the current circumstances may change in due course.
• Despite the Taliban's assurances of not using Afghan territory for terrorist activities, there's a possibility that they might provide covert support to terrorist factions.
• There is also a risk that the Taliban's rule might push Afghanistan back into the dark era of the 1990s, marked by rampant human rights violations, especially against women.

Role of the USA:

• US President Joe Biden has faced widespread criticism for the abrupt and disorganized withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan.
• The USA has been held accountable for the ensuing chaos in Afghanistan by various commentators.
• Although the US withdrawal was inevitable, the unexpected manner in which it unfolded has tarnished the image of the USA and other Western powers.

Role of India:

• The Indian government has been proactive in informing opposition parties about the developments in Afghanistan. Its primary focus is on the safe evacuation of Indian citizens stranded in Afghanistan.
• India's developmental efforts in Afghanistan and the goodwill it has garnered among the Afghan populace have suffered a severe blow due to the Taliban's takeover.
• Post the 9/11 terrorist attack on the USA and the subsequent American war on terror, India has made significant investments in Afghanistan, especially during the tenure of the civilian government.
• The funds India has invested in Afghanistan's reconstruction are a long-term commitment and will remain etched in memory for years to come.
• At present, India is in a vigilant mode, keeping a close eye on the Taliban's activities.
• India should also refrain from forming preconceived notions about the Taliban, which has promised to establish a broad-based inclusive government. If this comes to fruition, India should extend its support.
• Given the current scenario, India's options are limited to extending support to the Afghan people by granting them medical and educational visas.
• The Indian government's move to initiate electronic visas for Afghan citizens is commendable.
• The Indian Prime Minister has already initiated discussions with his counterparts in Germany and Russia regarding the situation, and more such dialogues are expected in the near future.
• India must engage in dialogue with all nations that are involved in resolving the Afghan crisis.
• It is crucial for India to establish a dialogue with Iran, considering its significant investments in the Chabahar port , which also benefits Afghanistan.
• Although the Taliban issue is of great significance to India, the country's foreign policy has a broader scope. Each nation has its interests, which may not align with India's. However, the overarching consensus is the need for peace and stability in Afghanistan.

The Road Ahead:

• Here are a few measures India can consider at this juncture.
  • Firstly, India should continue fostering people-to-people connections, such as granting medical or educational visas to Afghan citizens.
  • Secondly, India should collaborate with other nations to ensure peace in Afghanistan.
  • Lastly, India should adopt a wait-and-watch approach towards the developments in Afghanistan, without any preconceived biases against the Taliban.

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