Pakistan Rangers, Indian BSF exchange smiles at Wagah Another victory for Aman ki Asha

By Moayyed Jafri
LAHORE: 'Aman ki Asha' among the people on both sides of the border witnessed another victory when the Pakistan Rangers and Indian Border Security Force exchanged smiles, instead of a show of strength and force.

The stance taken up by the Aman ki Asha project by the Jang Group has broken many myths and misconceptions between the peoples across the border. Today, consistent and relentless efforts of the project have established the importance of people-to-people interaction.

Owing to awareness and governments' acceptance, cheers and smiles were a much-needed addition to this world famous event that had a reputation of uniqueness. Flag hoisting and lowering ceremonies at the Wagah border, associated with a show of national pride and strength by both sides, had been a tourist attraction for a long time and people not just from all over Pakistan but also abroad deemed it a ceremony of its own kind in the world.

The show at Wagah, though inspired patriotism in both nations, yet the nationalistic feeling came at the cost of an element of hostility exhibited by a head-high kicking march and earsplitting foot stamping by forces on both sides.

Yet the show expressed little of the will of the peoples on both sides, who want an end to negativity projected from both sides. The crowd cheered the new practice and termed it a major acknowledgement of the will of the people in both countries, as border officials of the two countries shook hands and exchanged smiles.

It was like the dawn of a new era on the line which marks the division between the two countries, yet it marked a sense of union and friendship. Talking to The News after the ceremony, people welcomed the new initiative.

"The previous practice was very theatrical, patriotic and fun to watch but it highlighted and glorified anger and arrogance, which was a dangerous ploy and could have kept alive inconvenient feelings across the border," commented Nasir, who had arrived there along with his family to witness the ceremony from Khushab.

"Nationalism does not come from uncomfortable feelings for other nationalities;
it takes root from strength within and confidence and harmony developed thr-
ough strong ties with neighbours. "Therefore, this was a much-needed measure and should be taken as the first drop of rain," said a spectator, Nazia.

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