Pahalgam incident is a major tragedy. It’s not just an act of violence but an ultimate form of terrorism – where men were selected and killed in front of their family members. Right in front of their wives and children. A trauma that will last for the rest of their lives.

One of the victims was a father of young children. His youngest saw this massacre. He saw his father killed. The father is dead. But that child won’t be alive like a normal being for the rest of his life.

Same goes for the young wife who witnessed the grotesque murder of her husband. She was supposed to witness the beautiful Kashmir.

No matter how politicians choose to politicize it, the tragedy remains the same. It is not a joke or a meme. It is as horrific as we have seen any similar tragedies in Pakistan or elsewhere in the world. Those responsible deserve the severest punishment.

Since India is living under Modi’s narrative, this shall be played like a political game. Already evident. Ending the already fragile diplomatic ties. Reflecting it in cricket. And also threatening with Indus Water Treaty – which won’t go as they intend it to go. Myopia will not resolve anything.

Ideally speaking, Pakistan and India should collaborate in such matters – which is unlikely because Indian state and media have already adopted kneejerk responses.

We have endured such tragedies. We have scars. We understand how they impact forever.

Pakistan has uncovered Indian links and spies in its soil in past. Yet, Pakistan’s media and politicians have managed the matters much, much better than their counterparts in India. Remember how the cases of Kulbhushan Jadhav and Captain Abhinandan Vardhaman were handled by Pakistan?

People suffer in the hands and games of politicians. People just like you and me. People who live in Manipur, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Mizoram, Balochistan, Former FATA and PATA, Jammu and Kashir. They are no different than the rest of us even if they follow the ugly games of politics with collateral damages.

Let’s hope sense will prevail. Regardless of whatever turn this all takes; the tragedy must be recognized as what it is – not a joke or some politics – and must be condemned at all levels.

Tragedy must not nurture more tragedies.