The close timing of the Kabul attack with the Red Mosque anniversary attack in Islamabad, and the attack in Jaipur soon after the civilian government took office in Pakistan, are disturbing signs. They indicate a growing inability of the Pakistani establishment to control the right wing political fringe and to prevent bomb attacks in and outside Pakistan. It is useful to remember that Jalaluddin Haqqani (of the DVD) had reportedly critiqued the Mullah Omar group and the Quetta based elements for incompetence. The Haqqani faction is reportedly closer to the ISI than some others in Quetta. Perhaps this indicates a schism within the Taliban, which the Pakistani authorities are unable to control.

A situation in which Pakistan’s internal and external controls over terrorist groups operating from its territory are unravelling can lead to a number of consequences. The first is of a competitive series of bomb attacks against “infidels” and their supporters at the most vulnerable spots, in which scale Kabul would rate highly. Second, Indian interests in other places in Afghanistan, like our consulates, would be obvious targets. Third, Indian officials and offices in other countries would be easy targets.

India, with its regional and enhanced global footprint, its strong relations with the developed world, and a growing capacity to play a meaningful role against terrorism, can only expect to be in the cross-hairs of extremist elements. It needs to further strengthen the global campaign against terrorism through its intelligence and security cooperation with all countries. It should also insist on ever stronger action by major powers to demand of Pakistan evidence of concerted action against the Taliban and al-Qaeda presence in its territory. The Kabul attack will remain one more piece of evidence, if it was needed, of the price India has and will continue to pay in its fight against terrorism.

... contd.