Delhi-Kabul Nexus: Regional Dynamics and Geopolitical Perspective (with reference to Pakistan)

Abstract

Peace and security in South Asia is conditioned with the constructive role of India and Pakistan by sustaining their bilateral issues. In this scenario, Afghanistan is the new front and source of insecurity between the traditional rivals, India and Pakistan. Afghanistan appeared as the extension of Kashmir issue between India and Pakistan. The study is based on the grounded method of Indian role in Afghanistan and the changing regional security scenario especially in post-9/11 era and its implications on Pakistan. It outlines India security interests, economic, social, political and infrastructural developments, her smart efforts viz-a-viz Pakistan, her strategic influence in Afghanistan to reach the Central Asian Republics (CARs), and to be seen as super-regional power viz-a-viz China with US support. The changing embryonic regional paradigm is challenging the status quo and indicating a major shift in the security trends in South Asia with severe implications for Pakistan. Thus, the study analyses the dependent concept of security, which will be defined under an area of concern in South Asia rather than a precise condition, supported by the realist and behavioral paradigm Social Realism‟ justifying Indian realist ends through social means in Afghanistan. Second, it examines the historic chronological events of Pakistan‟s and India‟s ties with Afghanistan, and how their presence in current scenario is affecting peace and security in the region. Thirdly, it explores growing Indian influence in Afghanistan and her smart activities in order to attain her preferred outcomes. Fourthly, it discusses the possible repercussions for Pakistan‟s security, strategic encirclement and Indian hegemonic intentions and, takes into account the major global power presence, and interest-oriented decisions that opened another front and strategic struggle between the traditional nuclear powers and the major powers US and China, to fill the political vacuum. Lastly, according to the current regional security trends, Pakistan may encounter severe implications that can further worsen the regional security apprehensions in South Asia.