A senior Pakistani politician and leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) stated on Wednesday that Pakistan could play a significant role in Indian politics following the general elections where Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alliance won fewer seats than anticipated. Senator Sherry Rehman, in a social media statement, discussed Pak-India relations and other pertinent issues following the announcement of India's election results.
Rehman pondered whether Modi's electoral setback might prompt him to focus more on stabilizing the region and pursuing peace with Pakistan, contingent upon a substantial shift in narrative. She noted that despite Modi's diminished popularity, his policy towards Pakistan might become a key factor in compensating for domestic losses. Rehman highlighted that Pakistan featured prominently in Modi's campaign, contrasting with the limited emphasis on India in Pakistani elections.
The strained relations between Islamabad and New Delhi, exacerbated by the Kashmir conflict and cross-border terrorism, were also addressed. Regarding the impact of the recent Indian elections, Rehman questioned whether India had fundamentally transformed, emphasizing the need to monitor the upcoming state elections for further insights.
The PPP, under the leadership of former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto, conveyed through its official channels that the Indian election reflected a rejection of divisive politics, with the populace opting against Modi's rhetoric of animosity and hindering his electoral ambitions.