India and Pakistan: A Complex Past and Ongoing Sentiments

Since the post-independence period, the relationship between India and Pakistan has been one of complex historical and emotional entanglements. Many wonder, who missed the other the most?

Perspective from the Indian Masses

From an honest perspective, a mass of the Indian population feels that India did miss Pakistan more. The partition was an unintended consequence of the British colonial rulers, not a conscious decision by the Indian masses. They did not want division; it was almost imposed upon them. The sentiment behind missing Pakistan stems from the fact that a majority of Indians opposed the partition.

For Indians, especially those of Hindu and Sikh backgrounds, the partition was a traumatic event. Many of them were forced out of their ancestral homes under horrific circumstances. This forced displacement has created a deep sense of incompletion and longing for the days before the partition. Additionally, those who believed in the unity of India, particularly the idea of a combined existence of Hindu and Muslim identities, also deeply miss Pakistan.

For cricket enthusiasts, the idea of a combined India-Pakistan team is appealing, adding another layer to their emotional equation. However, these sentiments are not prevalent among the majority of the population, as many of those who miss Pakistan are no longer alive.

Historical Context and Political Involvement

The partition was largely a game played between political forces, with the British colonial authorities playing a significant role. The British initially suggested a united nation where both parties would share power, but when religious factions took control, their interests diverged, leading to two separate nations with distinct leadership and agendas.

The reality of the partition has left a lasting impact. Pakistan's actions, such as demanding more territories like Azad Kashmir and spending a significant portion of its budget on military related to these regions, only highlight the ongoing tensions. Moreover, the distribution of the Indus Waters, with India owning 80% of the water, further exacerbates the already complex Indo-Pak relationship. These issues further emphasize the legacy of the partition and the lingering emotions associated with it.

Conclusion

While both countries have their histories and ongoing concerns, the sentiment of missing the other is more prevalent in India. The partition was a significant and traumatic event that left deep scars, and although times have changed, the emotional ties remain. The ongoing disputes and the partitions' complex legacy ensure that the debate around who misses the other more will continue to be a significant topic of discussion.