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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.
The Plight of Deported Afghans
By Shanthie Mariet D’Souza
An unending refugee and humanitarian crisis the world seems to have forgotten.
People’s Democratic Party Wins Elections in Bhutan
By Santosh Sharma Poudel
Unlike in other parts of South Asia, where elections are plagued with controversy, Bhutan’s fourth general election was peaceful and not divisive.
Alarm Over Hijab Enforcement Exposes Afghanistan’s Dire Need for Direct Engagement
By Freshta Jalalzai
Resolving the complex issues that Afghans face demands more than just external envoy efforts. It necessitates direct engagement with the people of Afghanistan.
Could the India-Pakistan Relationship Normalize in 2024?
By Khurram Abbas and Muhammad Ahmad Khan
The new year brings new hope that the time is right for India and Pakistan to focus on confidence-building measures to resume diplomatic and trade ties.
How Will Islamist Parties Fare in Pakistan’s Battle for the Ballot?
By Umair Jamal
In a bid to broaden their support, they are not limiting themselves to religious appeals but discussing political and economic issues too.
Lack of Consultation Hobbles India’s New Criminal Laws
By Prem Singh Gill
Stringent punishment for hit-and-run accidents is being strongly opposed by truckers, as establishing responsibility is not easy on India’s chaotic roads.
Indian FM’s Visit to Nepal Sees Deals Sealed, and a Controversy
By Santosh Sharma Poudel
A long-term power trade pact was signed. However, Indian funding for community development projects evokes concern in Nepal.
India’s Supreme Court Restores Faith in Rule of Law
By Kavita Chowdhury
In a historic verdict, it has quashed the release of the 11 rapists of Bilkis Bano during the 2002 riots in Gujarat.
Can Pakistan’s Maulana Fazlur Rehman Mend Ties With the Taliban?
By Freshta Jalalzai
The famously pro-Taliban politician is making a visit to Kabul at a tense time in Afghanistan-Pakistan relations.
Aditya-L1 Mission: Another Feat for India’s Space Program
By Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan
India’s maiden solar mission undertook a journey of around 1.5 million km from Earth, taking 127 days to reach its final destination.
Bangladesh’s Flawed Election Increases Polarization, Risk of Violence
By Pierre Prakash
The Awami League remains in power; voter frustration is at an all-time high after three successive controversial elections.
What’s Inside Northern India’s Winter Smog?
By Vinayak Sinha and Abhishek Mishra
Reassessing agricultural practices, irrigation, handling of crop residue, and prevention of open fires could be a win-win for air quality and quality of life.