India and Pakistan are still very much on the razor's edge: Ramanathan Kumar

Published on May 29, 2025. In this episode of Frontline Conversations, Amit Baruah speaks to the former head of R&AW's Pakistan desk Ramanathan Kumar about the fragile India-Pakistan ceasefire following Operation Sindoor. With conflicting narratives, rampant propaganda, and deep-rooted mistrust on both sides, Kumar offers an assessment of the military hostilities, the risks of renewed conflict, and the larger geopolitical implications of Chinese support to Pakistan. He also warns that while the ceasefire holds for now, another terrorist strike could trigger a dangerous escalation—especially under ideologically driven leadership on both sides. Context: The ceasefire that followed the military clashes between India and Pakistan from May 7–10 has temporarily halted a volatile confrontation—but for how long? Amid claims of victories, air strikes, and retaliations, this episode cuts through the disinformation to examine what really happened. Former R&AW officer Ramanathan Kumar draws on years of intelligence experience to explain the strategic and psychological dimensions of the conflict—from satellite imagery of damaged airbases to the dangerous implications of Pakistan’s evolving military doctrine under Field Marshal Asim Munir. Kumar delves into key issues like the limits of deterrence, the potential unraveling of the Indus Waters Treaty, and how propaganda—amplified by both governments and media—can distort public understanding and box leaders into dangerous corners. Highlights: -What really happened during Operation Sindoor -Why the current India-Pakistan situation is "Not War, Not Peace" -The strategic role of disinformation and propaganda in conflict -How commercial satellite imagery challenges official narratives -The growing China-Pakistan military axis and its implications for India -Indus Waters Treaty: Legal, environmental, and existential stakes -Lessons from past conflicts like Balakot and Operation Parakram Perfect for: -Viewers interested in India-Pakistan relations -Students of geopolitics and strategic affairs -Those seeking clarity amid conflicting war narratives -People interested in military and intelligence perspectives -Followers of India’s national security and foreign policy -Journalists and analysts tracking South Asian conflict dynamics -Anyone curious about the future of the Indo-Pak ceasefire Credits: Host: Amit Baruah Editing: Razal Pareed Production Assistant: Zara Zafia Producers: Abhinav Chakraborty and Kavya Pradeep M. Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295