In the wake of tensions between India and Pakistan, South Asian students of Harvard University have planned a ‘global vigil’ on Sunday for peace between the two countries.
Sponsored by the South Asia Centre, Boston, and the Alliance for Secular and Democratic South Asia, the vigil at Harvard Square is aimed at voicing concern over ceasefire violations at the LoC and the war hype being built up by “sections of the media and politicians in India that threatens peace in the region”. Condoling the loss of lives on both sides and “condemning any kind of mutilation or beheading of human bodies”, the organisers called for independent investigations into these reported incidents so that the truth is known. They also asked the students to join in the effort at maintaining harmony and accord between the two countries and in the region and suggested they bring a poster or placard reflecting that spirit.
Appreciating that India and Pakistan have reiterated their commitment to continue the dialogue process, the sponsors said dialogue must be uninterrupted and uninterruptible. “Any deviation from this process will only encourage and strengthen extremist, hawkish and fanatical elements on both sides who want to derail the peace process,” they said.
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Urging India and Pakistan to stay the course and continue with the progress made towards normalising relations, the organisers said: “A prosperous and well-connected South Asia is our best response to these divisive factions.”