By Sardar Khan Niazi
Shahbaz Sharif, the Chief Minister of Punjab was quite candid and frank in the meeting that I had with him the other day and he answered the queries and questions in a detailed and concise manner but while admiring this candidness of the CM, I have to admit, albeit begrudgingly, that he sidestepped the billion, nay, a trillion dollar question: How do you respond to the mounting perception that government is having an unprecedented soft corner for India and is reluctant in criticizing Indian involvement in Pakistan despite the fact that the arrest of the prime Indian spy master Kulbhushan Yadav is speaking volumes of the fact that the neighboring power is well active with its anti Pakistan nefarious designs in the region. Why its sound and fury becomes a whimper when it comes to India?
While the CM responded to almost all other questions I raised, he ignored this crunch question. I believe a prudent answer to this question can steer the PMLN led government out of this current crisis. Panama leaks might have been an issue but not something so big that can jolt the government. The real problem lies somewhere else and methinks it lies in this mounting perception of the masses. There is no doubt whatsoever that the present government has done tremendous work since assuming power, from numerous infrastructure projects, education and health reforms and the all important China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. The country at this critical juncture where progress and prosperity seems within grasp needs stability and clarity. Once some top gun of the ruling coterie comes forward and brushes aside the perception of soft stance on matters related to India the confusion shall immediately vanish away. The sooner the better Dear Sir.