Wary on Obama

Obama’s charisma might be a draw for many Indians, but the substance of his policy toward India leaves others apprehensive. Among areas of concern are the inclusion of disputed Kashmir in the US’s regional strategy toward Pakistan; the potential that US military hardware given to Pakistan could be used against India; Obama’s openness to reconciliation with “good” Taliban, a phrase many Indians dispute; and finally Obama’s non-proliferation agenda that is likely to pressure India’s nuclear program. Meanwhile, some in New Delhi suggest that India should look to other potential allies given the US’s reduced dominance in the world. To address these concerns, the author suggests, Obama should make it clear that the US’s assistance to Pakistan is predicated on that country ending its support for terrorists that target India. Finally, India should be treated as partner in nuclear energy and non-proliferation. If Washington doesn’t move quickly to allay Indian concerns, it risks weakening ties with an important strategic partner. – YaleGlobal