India's self interest in a unified democratic Afghanistan
by Giri Girishankar on Aug 31, 2005 11:03 AM
Operation Enduring Freedom, by driving out the Pakistan-sponsored Taliban from Afghanistan, has given that country a great opportunity to evolve into a democracy. Who else in the neighborhood could help them become one but India? It is also in Indias self interest to build a strong multi-ethnic democracy in that country for a number of reasons. Firstly, to prevent the resurgence of extremist Taliban influence; secondly, to encourage Pakistanis to seek the benefits of free democracy, which will enable them to have a voice in their own popularly elected government as opposed to a military oligarchy and to enjoy an economically better lifestyle; thirdly, to facilitate in due course of time the establishment of a region of peacefully coexisting neighbors.
India has to patiently and doggedly work with the Karzai Government by engaging itself in constructive and productive enterprises, and building democratic institutions, which will eventually integrate the population. India has been doing just that since the Taliban were driven away. To continue this process is of great strategic importance as well as a demonstration of Indias power of influence in the region.
