Q&A with Dr N K Kalia, father of slain Capt. Saurabh Kalia
Q: Your take on Centre’s decision to approach Supreme Court on moving ICJ in connection with the torture and killing of your son Saurabh Kalia and other soldiers?
It seems to be a ray of hope. But it may be a diversionary tactic to gain time as the ball is before the Supreme Court. It could also end up as another exercise in futility. This is not only the case of Capt. Kalia and his 5 brave soldiers. It involves national prestige and morale of our valiant men and officers.
Q: Successive ministries lost 16 years since the killing?
I could not agree more. Finding the Indian Government merely protesting and with no effective action on the ground, perhaps for fear of international reactions, treacherous Pakistan went to the extent of beheading our soldiers. Losing our soldiers on the Line of Control is a glaring example. Stern and swift action after Kargil war could have stemmed this. Successive regimes have remained confused and indecisive.
Q: Will going to ICJ further the cause of martyrs?
It is to be seen whether the Government goes to ICJ. Is it all wishful thinking? Shame our think-tanks get outsmarted in diplomacy by a small neighbour like Pakistan. India is a huge nation. It must assert on the international scene in all respects.
Q: How did the family cope with such a huge tragedy?
It was tough and painful. But Capt. Kalia’s supreme sacrifice for Mother India is a great honour. Honestly, though we lost Saurabh physically, we got thousands of Saurabhs the world over. They never let us feel we were alone all these 16 years, be it the public, media or the Army. I extend grateful thanks to one and all.
