Whither Saarc?
Dr. Q.M. Ohidul Alam, Chittagong
Saarc is two decades old. But its evolution shows neither statesmanship nor political craftsmanship. Rather, the hollowness of its goal, commitment and sincerity evokes childish bewilderment. The real culprits are bureaucracy and political legacy that are prevailing among three of its member countries-- India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Other members are reluctant witness to fun-play of these three members. The contrast between reality and nice- sounding 30-point charter adopted in New Delhi can well be understood from the following three events. Situation oneA 70-year old Indian journalist applied for a tourist visa in Bangladesh Deputy High commission in Kolkata. In the application form for profession column he wrote 'retired journalist'. This was sufficient for his plan to visit Bangladesh to be rejected. Situation two---A Bangladeshi traveler to Pakistan was picked up by police simply to be questioned why he had visited India so many times? Situation three20 Pakistani doctors were invited by an Indian professional organisation to participate in a scientific seminar. One day before the seminar started all the Pakistani doctors were denied visa by the Indian govt. So, lofty speeches alone won't work!
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