It’s a difficult question to answer. There’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN), the incumbent, who had one of the poorest runs. Domestic economic issues remained intact, including inflation, unemployment, and poverty. Pakistan’s stand on the global platforms, too, took a big hit due to the government’s poor policies.
Indeed, when compared to the previous governments, PMLN was much cozy with India, even after much-heightened tensions. And it was evident in multiple meetups between Nawaz Sharif and Narendra Modi.
On the other side, there’s Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of Imran Khan, which is all set to win. PTI has been in the mainstream foray ever since its inception. The party has captured the youths of the nation and even the media for its “different type of politics”. Imran Khan has been the biggest attraction, thanks to his personality and speeches on issues that matter to the residents. He is one of the few leaders who can reinforce economic and social stability in Pakistan.
But then, PTI is known to be much aggressive against India, when compared to PMLN. Imran Khan has spewed venom against India on multiple occasions in rallies and interviews. In fact, this is one of the biggest reasons Pakistan’s military has been supporting PTI hushedly. And Military support wasn’t something Sharif government received much due to his moderate, non-extreme policies with India.
If we look at the on-going poll result right now, Imran Khan is all set to become the next Prime Minister of Pakistan and PTI is set to EASILY form a coalition government. Now, it’s a whole different topic altogether that PTI is accused of rigging. Pakistan military, allowed to control the booths, is said to be playing a major role in ensuring PTI’s win.
If indeed the military is helping Imran Khan win the election, it’s not a very good news for India. Given we know exactly the stance of Military on India, it’s likely the party they are supporting to win will take a hostile stand against India.
In short, while Imran Khan might be an ideal choice for the domestic functioning of Pakistan, he’s certainly not the right person to lead foreign diplomacy with India—rather like our Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
On the other hand, PMLN’s incapability on the economic and social front wasn’t the good news for India too. Under their rule, the social fabric of Pakistan went from bad to worse. Terrorism breed, people died, and Pakistan-captured Kashmir was dealt with poorly. If they come back in power, which is very unlikely, they would likely continue on their inefficiencies. And that’s not what India wants either.
Of course, there are few other parties, including ones of Bilawal Bhutto and Hafiz Saeed’s. But none of them are really relevant in this Pakistan election.
India is basically between the devil and the sea. There’s no better option. Both the parties are bad and, in one way or other, doesn’t fit our Goodwill. If you’re an Indian, you shouldn’t be supporting any party. Take the privilege that Indian electoral system gives you, something Pakistanis have been craving— select NOTA.
(Courtesy: Times Now)