To My Friends Across the Border – A Letter to the People of Pakistan

We share a deep and intertwined history — one of culture, language, music, cuisine, and the spirit of the subcontinent. In so many ways, we are reflections of each other. And yet, over the decades, we have drifted apart, shaped by different choices, systems, and circumstances.

India, with all its flaws and challenges, continues to strive as the world’s largest democracy. Our journey is far from perfect, but we continue to evolve. Pakistan, on the other hand, has struggled with military dominance over civilian institutions. No Prime Minister has completed a full term, and the shadow of the army looms large over your democracy.

While India has consistently extended a hand of friendship, it has often been met with the tragedy of terrorism. The painful memories of 26/11 in Mumbai, the Parliament attack, Pathankot, Pulwama — these are not abstract events. They left scars on families, cities, and an entire nation. We presented evidence, offered joint investigations, and tried dialogue — but the perpetrators still roam free under the protection of the military and the ISI. This is not an accusation pulled from thin air; your own generals and leaders have at times acknowledged these realities.

So, I write this letter with a few thoughts and appeals — not to provoke, but to reflect and hope.

To the Generals of Pakistan

Please return to your constitutional role — protect your country from external threats, not dominate it from within. Let your people shape their future free from fear and manipulation. Stop using terror as a tool of state policy — it brings only destruction, distrust, and disgrace.

To the Politicians of Pakistan

Reclaim your mandate. Build strong institutions and fight for democratic values. Your silence and submission have cost your nation dearly. It’s time to show courage — for your people, for your children, and for the future of your country.

And to the People of Pakistan

You are the only force that can bring real, lasting change. Demand accountability. Ask your leaders and generals tough questions. Why are terrorist leaders like Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar still free? Why are peace efforts constantly derailed by violence? Why is your democracy held hostage by unelected powers?

I understand the skepticism many of you feel about India’s actions, such as the cross-border strikes. But consider this: what happened to the evidence we gave in the past? What came of the joint investigations we agreed upon? Every time we’ve extended a hand — whether it was a bus to Lahore or a surprise visit by our Prime Minister — it was followed by betrayal: Kargil, Pathankot, Pulwama. Can you not see why we’ve grown cynical?

“Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. Fool me thrice, shame on both of us.”
And sadly, we have crossed that threshold many times.

Despite all this, I still believe we can coexist — maybe not as friends, but as peaceful neighbours, focusing on our own progress and prosperity. We owe it to our people — to live without fear, to grow, to build, and to thrive.

And let me say this clearly: with or without your support, India will pursue and eliminate terrorism wherever it hides. We owe that to our citizens who have paid the price — often with their lives — for cross-border terror.

This letter is not written out of hate, but out of pain, frustration, and hope. The hope that one day, we can move beyond history, beyond manipulation, and toward a future where both our nations can live in peace and dignity.

From your neighbour across the border,
An Indian Citizen