America’s nuclear challenge

Re “India nuclear deal advances,” Nov. 17

Once again we see the hypocrisy of the current administration in adopting a foreign policy dictated by a total lack of foresight. India refused to sign the worldwide Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty years ago and went ahead with its nuclear ambitions.

Eight years after its first nuclear test explosions, we are ready to give India access to American nuclear fuel and technology.

Supporters say India has proved itself a responsible nuclear power.

If you apply the same logic to Iran and North Korea, then why stop both from producing the same and deprive them of the opportunity to prove to the world that they too will be responsible nuclear powers?

There are signs that China is willing to cooperate with Pakistan on a similar deal.

If this deal is turned into law, we in fact have started to talk from both sides of our mouth on the subject of nuclear nonproliferation. How else do you define hypocrisy?

DODD M. SHEIKH

Redondo Beach

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Senate Bill 3709, which would allow the U.S. to transfer civilian nuclear technology to India, would immediately serve as protection in an unstable region and deter overzealous, anti-democratic nations from unlawfully increasing their nuclear capabilities.

The U.S. has two strategic challenges: radical Islamists and undemocratic, rising China. Only India shares these two concerns equally. A strong India is vital for stability in South Asia.

Culturally, other countries in South Asia will not challenge China. Only India has the population and economic and strategic potential to balance China and contain radical Islamists.

Since 9/11, we have taken a strong stand to combat the terror that threatens our way of life. As Americans, we must persevere through this difficult and turbulent atmosphere where nuclear extremism and religious radicalism is bred worldwide.

We have to acknowledge that while it is necessary to protect ourselves at home, it is necessary that we shield our interests and well-being abroad.

RAMESH V. KAPUR

Winchester, Mass.

The writer is chairman of the Indo-American Leadership Council of the Democratic National Committee.