Neeraj and Arshad: A model of friendship

Indian javelin-thrower Neeraj Chopra’s friendly attitude towards his Pakistani rival Arshad Nadeem should be a thoughtful lesson for Indian politicians. The government of Narendra Modi has tried its best to vitiate relations with neighbours by utilising negative politics in order to gain political mileage.

But that scenario took a back seat when the javelin-throwers of the two nations stood side by side on the podium without any animosity. Whenever people from the two countries meet in foreign lands, they always treat one another in a cordial manner.

Unfortunately, when it comes to the Indian government, it always spews venom against Pakistan. The Hindutva regime of Modi has particularly dest­royed peace in South Asia. And when it comes to matters related to Pakistan, the official Indian behaviour is nothing but toxic.

The Modi government needs to learn a lesson from the sporting behaviour shown by Neeraj, and the humane tone adopted by his family towards Arshad and his family in Pakistan. This should serve as an example for Indian politicians, especially Modi.

AUSAF HYDER SIAL

HYDERABAD