A Diplomat's Insider Account of the India-Pakistan Crisis

Anger Management: The Troubled Diplomatic Relationship Between India and Pakistan Book Review

Name: Anger Management: The Troubled Diplomatic Relationship Between India and Pakistan

Launch: 10 January 2024

Author: Ajay Bisaria

Genre: Politics, International Relation, Non-Fiction

Rating: ★★★★

Buying Link: Amazon

Anger Management: The Troubled Diplomatic Relationship Between India and Pakistan is a book by Ajay Bisaria, who served as the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan from 2017 to 2019. The book, published in 2023, is a memoir of his experiences and insights during one of the most turbulent periods in the history of the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The book covers the events leading up to and following the Pulwama attack, the Balakot airstrike, the capture and release of Abhinandan Varthaman, and the Kartarpur corridor initiative. The book also reveals the behind-the-scenes developments, the diplomatic challenges, the personal anecdotes, and the lessons learned from his tenure.

The main argument of the book is that India and Pakistan need to manage their anger and find ways to engage in constructive dialogue, rather than resorting to military escalation and brinkmanship. Bisaria argues that both countries have a common interest in peace and stability, and that they can benefit from cooperation in various fields, such as trade, tourism, culture, and religion. He also suggests that the role of third parties, such as the US, China, and Saudi Arabia, can be positive or negative, depending on their motives and influence. He advocates for a pragmatic and realistic approach to the bilateral relationship, based on mutual respect and trust.

The book's strengths lie in its candid and nuanced portrayal of the complex and dynamic situation between India and Pakistan. Bisaria does not shy away from criticizing the mistakes and shortcomings of both sides, but he also acknowledges the positive steps and gestures that were taken or attempted. He provides a balanced and objective perspective, without being biased or partisan. He also enriches his analysis with relevant facts, figures, and quotations from various sources, such as official documents, media reports, academic studies, and personal interviews. He writes in a clear and engaging style, with a touch of humour and wit.

The book's weaknesses are minor and do not detract from its overall quality and value. One weakness is that the book is mostly focused on the events of 2019, and does not give much attention to the broader historical and political context of the India-Pakistan relationship. Another weakness is that the book does not offer much in terms of concrete and actionable recommendations or solutions for the future. The book ends with a hopeful note, but also a realistic one, that the relationship will remain unpredictable and volatile, and that the challenges will persist.

In conclusion, Anger Management: The Troubled Diplomatic Relationship Between India and Pakistan is a book that deserves to be read by anyone who is interested in or concerned about the South Asian region and its security. The book is a rare and valuable account of a diplomat who witnessed and participated in some of the most crucial and dramatic moments in the history of the two countries. The book is informative, insightful, and interesting, and it offers a glimpse into the inner workings of diplomacy and statecraft. I would give the book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about the India-Pakistan relationship, or who enjoys reading memoirs and biographies. Some questions that the book raises for further discussion are:

• How can India and Pakistan overcome their mutual distrust and hostility, and build a positive and cooperative relationship?
• What are the roles and responsibilities of the international community, especially the major powers, in facilitating and supporting the dialogue and peace process between India and Pakistan?
• How can the people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan be enhanced and sustained, despite the political and security challenges?