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The Pulse
South Asia is a story of promise and peril where Asia’s conflicting forces of modernity and reaction meet head on. Home to a multitude of different cultures, ethnicities, and religions, The Diplomat's regional correspondents and experts will provide the insight you need to navigate one of the world's most consequential regions.
Political Crisis in Pakistan Escalates as Imran Khan is Arrested
By Munir Ahmed and Riazat Butt
The popular former prime minister faces multiple cases relating to corruption and terrorism charges.
Bangladeshi PM Swings Through Japan, US and UK
By Mubashar Hasan
Hasina’s trip to the U.S. was limited to meeting officials at the World Bank and the IMF. No official meeting took place between her and the U.S. government.
What Did Pakistan’s FM Accomplish at the SCO Meeting in India?
By Ureeda Khan and Syed Basim Raza
Bilateral relations between Pakistan and India remain stagnant, but that was not the goal of Bhutto Zardari’s trip.
After Attacks on Chinese Nationals, Pakistan Pledges More Security
By Munir Ahmed
China has been demanding more security from Pakistan for its nationals residing and working in the Islamic country for a few years now.
Pakistan, Afghan Taliban Agree to Boost Trade, Lower Tension
By Munir Ahmed
The Taliban regime’s Amir Khan Muttaqi met Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Pakistani army chief General Asim Munir.
Why India-Pakistan Normalization Makes Strategic Sense
By Mohamed Zeeshan
Pakistan’s foreign minister was in India for the SCO meeting last week. But there was no breakthrough on the bilateral front.
Afghanistan Seeks to Control Its Own Water Destiny
By Patrick Yeager
The Taliban’s plan to upgrade Afghanistan’s water infrastructure is raising tensions with neighboring countries.
Is the ‘Modi Magic’ Waning in Karnataka State?
By Kavita Chowdhury
For the first time in over a decade, the opposition Congress is battle-ready and confident. It could oust the ruling BJP in the southern Indian state.
Sri Lanka’s New Anti-terrorism Law is Old Wine in New Bottle
By J. S. Tissainayagam
If torture is to be eradicated in Sri Lanka the institutions of the magistrate and police need to be reformed.
India Can’t Afford to Lose Maldives Again
By Radhey Tambi
A recent visit by India’s defense minister was just the latest in a surge of outreach toward Maldives as its election nears.
India Army Patrols Streets to Defuse Clashes in Manipur
By Wasbir Hussain
Violence broke out in the northeastern state as majority Christian hill tribes objected to a plan to grant Meitei Hindus special privileges.
Modi Silent as India’s Women Wrestlers Grapple with Sexual Harassment by BJP MP
By Snigdhendu Bhattacharya
While the accused politician, who heads the Wrestling Federation of India, has refused to resign, the protesters threatened to continue the stir till they get justice.