“The Indian scene is more conducive to compromise and wider discussion and debate because of the tradition of a stronger civil society,” says Talbot. “Debate within Pakistan is much more narrowly circumscribed even during periods of civilian rule,” he adds. This, he feels, arises not just from the military/security service presence, but the influence of public opinion articulated vociferously through Islamic groups. Perhaps, as a result, there is a greater sense that Kashmir is not something that can be compromised on in any way. It is regarded as more non-negotiable by hardliners who are, as a consequence, more hardline than their Indian counterparts.