The Worst Idea Ever–Indian Troops In Afghanistan
Indian boots in Afghanistan? Bidanda Chengappa US Special Representative for AfPak Richard Holbrooke's recent statement that Pakistan is critical to stabilise Afghanistan has serious implications for Indian security interests. Considering he was also dismissive of New Delhi's concerns over reconciliation with the Taliban, calls for a radical review of India's Afghanistan policy. New Delhi can no longer afford to kowtow to US policy interests, given Pakistan's insecurity vis a vis India. With the ground being laid for the creeping return of the Taliban to Kabul, India faces a far greater threat to its national security interests from Afghanistan than the US. New Delhi therefore seriously needs to consider the possibility of military deployment in Afghanistan to support and strengthen the US led coalition military efforts against the Taliban terrorists. India has never flexed its military muscles against Pakistani-sponsored cross border jehadi terrorism —except occa