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ISI, Taliban and Kashmir: A History of Militancy in Pakistan - Zahid Hussain - TPE 346

The Pakistan Experience・72 minutes read

The arrival of Taliban in Afghanistan brought joy, impacting national security in Pakistan. The complex intertwining of military, politics, and personal choices led to ongoing issues with militancy.

Insights

  • The rise of militancy in Pakistan was deeply intertwined with state policies in the 1980s and 1990s, leading to a blurred line between "good" and "bad" Taliban, ultimately impacting national security.
  • The complexities of Pakistan's political and militant landscape, including the intertwining of personal choices and policy decisions by leaders like Musharraf, underscore the intricate web of factors shaping the country's security environment, highlighting the need for effective policies and a holistic approach towards militancy to prevent ongoing issues.

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  • What led to the rise of militancy in Pakistan?

    State policies in the 1980s and 1990s fueled militancy.

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Summary

00:00

Rise of Taliban and Militancy in Pakistan

  • Taliban's arrival in Afghanistan led to joy and a sense of conquest.
  • Zahid Sahab, an expert on militancy, has written books and contributed to various publications.
  • The issue of militancy in Pakistan has existed for 253 years.
  • Militancy in Pakistan stemmed from state policies in the 1980s and 1990s.
  • Militancy escalated beyond control despite efforts to suppress it.
  • The distinction between good and bad Taliban was blurred, impacting national security.
  • The resurgence of Taliban rule in Afghanistan was predictable.
  • Pakistan's policy of promoting jihadism in the past led to unintended consequences.
  • American support in the 1980s strengthened ISI and fueled militancy.
  • Influx of American dollars through ISI led to unaccounted funds for Mujahideen.

14:26

Pakistan's Political Evolution and Militant Landscape

  • ISI's internal wing was mistakenly transformed into a political wing in 1970, leading to ineffective influence and political entanglements.
  • Ghulam Jeelani, a former ISI head, was later appointed as the Governor of Punjab, showcasing the intertwining of military and political roles.
  • In 1977, significant political shifts occurred due to the creation of internal wings within organizations like ISI, leading to unintended consequences.
  • The division of Mujahideen groups due to political arrangements and external funding, including substantial contributions from America and Saudi Arabia, altered the landscape of militant groups.
  • The strategic importance of Pakistan as a frontline state during the Cold War era, caught between Soviet and American blocs, influenced its political and military dynamics.
  • Benazir Bhutto's political evolution over two decades, marked by interviews and interactions, reflected shifts in her views on militancy and jihad.
  • The complex political landscape post-Benazir Bhutto's assassination highlighted the challenges of conducting thorough investigations and the influence of political interests.
  • The legacy of leaders like Musharraf and their impact on Pakistan's political and militant landscape, including the creation of TTP, showcased the intertwining of personal choices and policy decisions.
  • The formation of TTP under Musharraf's regime in 2007 underscored the complexities of political decisions and their long-term consequences.
  • The interplay between personal lifestyles, political decisions, and the creation of militant groups like TTP highlighted the intricate web of factors shaping Pakistan's political and security environment.

29:07

Musharraf's Pakistan: Balancing Liberalism and Militancy

  • Liberalism should be promoted with enlightened moderation
  • Musharraf aimed to make Pakistan an Islamic state
  • Musharraf's policies were influenced by the need for international support
  • The use of militancy as a tool in state policy was a significant aspect
  • Musharraf's personal views and approach towards militancy were crucial
  • Musharraf's vision for Pakistan differed from creating an Islamic state to a modern state
  • The transition from military dictatorship to democracy was a recurring pattern in Pakistan
  • The Lal Masjid incident highlighted the challenges of dealing with militancy
  • The lack of a holistic policy towards militancy led to ongoing issues in Pakistan
  • The role of Pakistan in regional conflicts, like in Afghanistan, impacted its internal policies

43:42

"Balochistan: Nationalism, Military, Politics, and Unrest"

  • The text discusses various events and interactions, including the author's experiences with Akbar Bukti and General Shaukat Sultan.
  • There is mention of articles written by the author in Musharraf's era and interactions with military figures.
  • The author reflects on the situation in Balochistan, highlighting the impact of past decisions and policies.
  • The text delves into the complexities of nationalism in Balochistan and the challenges faced by the Baloch people.
  • It discusses the role of the military and the impact of kinetic actions on the situation in Balochistan.
  • The author recounts incidents involving army commanders and discussions on grievances in Balochistan.
  • There is a focus on political figures and parties in Balochistan, including the Balochistan Awami Party.
  • The text touches on the consequences of political decisions and the need for effective policies in Balochistan.
  • It emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing internal issues to prevent further unrest.
  • The author reflects on the current state of affairs in the country and the need for introspection and corrective measures.

57:58

"Resolving Foreign Policy: Pakistan's Political Landscape"

  • The text discusses the importance of resolving thoughts and understanding foreign policy.
  • It mentions the successful phone policy of Pakistan.
  • Safe borders and relations with the sea are highlighted.
  • The text delves into the concept of doctrines and hybrid rule in Pakistan.
  • It discusses the impact of institutional thinking and the role of civilians and leaders.
  • The text touches on the significance of religion and the involvement of the army in politics.
  • It mentions the author's upcoming book on Taliban and other political figures.
  • The text reveals the author's background as a former student leader and journalist.
  • It discusses the political crisis and the need for viable strategies to address it.
  • The text emphasizes the issue of dynastic politics in Pakistan and the lack of new faces in leadership roles.

01:12:30

Pakistan's Leadership: Unity, Reform, Progress

  • Student union elections were vibrant in the past at Karachi University, with candidates giving speeches in classes and engaging in debates.
  • The political landscape has changed, leaving people feeling disillusioned and questioning Pakistan's options, especially regarding Kashmir.
  • There is a call for self-reflection and change in Pakistan's leadership, focusing on the need to address the country's direction and educational system.
  • The speaker emphasizes the importance of unity, self-improvement, and economic reform in Pakistan, highlighting the reliance on foreign aid and the need to capitalize on the country's strategic position for progress.
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