A change of policy will not alter the dynamics of a nuclear attack — both sides will suffer incalculable damage (“Should India tinker with its ‘No First Use’ policy?,” Aug. 23). Both India and Pakistan need to find common ground to restart the stalled discussions. A nuclear attack can only lead to mutually assured destruction. Moreover, it will have grave economic consequences for both nations, at present making serious efforts to the raise the living standards of their citizens. It is not that the two arch-rivals have not had a constructive relationship. The Indus Water Treaty (IWT) has withstood the vicissitudes of time and has admirably served the irrigation needs of both nations. Back-channel efforts need to focus on de-escalating tensions. The ongoing debate on nuclear deterrence is mere speech-craft.
H.N. Ramakrishna,
Bengaluru
