This time too, India must be cautious as Pakistan might start war without any prior declaration. The government needs to take measures to ensure the safety and security of its people.

Pakistan started the 1965 war as it felt that India would not be able to defend itself from a sudden military offensive after its defeat by China in 1962. There was also some resentment in political circles and the masses over Kashmir. The Pakistani government, at that time, was becoming increasingly alarmed by India’s efforts to integrate Kashmir.

There was also a perception in Pakistan that there was a widespread support within Kashmir for Pakistan and that the Kashmiri people were dissatisfied with India. The war, which started in August 1965, continued for nearly 50 days.

Thus, keeping our past experiences and also the attitude of our neighbouring country in view, we must not rule out the possibility of such an eventuality.

Our politicians should take this into account and take the necessary steps to secure our country.

Pakistan, under General Pervez Musharraf, had bought for itself a huge supply of ammunition and fighter aircrafts from the US and China and

have also been providing training to their terrorist networks.

Our defence minister should thus see to it that we are well-prepared to face any eventuality as Pakistan is not a country where diplomacy will work.

Our politicians should discuss the future events and take collective decisions to strengthen the military, air force and navy, including our police, coast guards and intelligence agencies.

Although Pakistan is facing pressure from countries like USA, UK and Russia to cooperate with India and hand over those behind the Mumbai terror attack, we should not rely on their support alone.

Pakistan is one of the main allies of the US in its fight against terror, a fact which has been made clear by the US president on a number of occasions. The USA would thus, not be able to exert much pressure on Pakistan.