By IRNA
New Delhi : India is closely watching the volatile situation in Pakistan, triggered by a tense faceoff between the government and radical elements in the influential Lal Masjid, with officials and experts saying that its outcome may well hinge the future of President Pervez Musharraf.
"We are keeping a watch on the situation in Pakistan. We are concerned about the Lal Masjid incident, especially as it concerns radical elements in that country, some of whom are opposed to the peace process with India'," IANS reported here quoting official sources.
"What's going on in Lal Masjid has serious political implications.
It's a high-risk operation. If it goes off successfully for Musharraf, it could lead to the declaration of emergency which in turn could lead to the postponement of polls," said G. Parthasarathy, a former Indian ambassador to Pakistan.
The standoff between the mosque students and the security forces surrounding the Lal Masjid seminary located in the heart of the Pakistani capital has killed 21 and injured over 150 in over 24 hours since the clash erupted Tuesday afternoon.
"It's too early to say. We have to wait and watch," said Parthasarathy when asked how this open clash between the military-led government and Lal Masjid clerics will affect the survival of Musharraf.
"There have been military rulers in Pakistan and they have faced many crises. But this is perhaps more challenging than what other rulers have faced," said K. Subrahmanyam, who heads the prime minister's task force on global strategic developments.
"Musharraf's position is becoming difficult. The next few days are going to be critical for him," Subrahmanyam said.