Early 1952 dawned with the echoes of a recent past still resonating through India. The aftermath of the failed coup in mid 1951 had left Rohan with the monumental task of rebuilding his government and restoring stability.
As the sun climbed higher over Delhi, Rohan convened a crucial meeting with his key aides and advisors to address the pressing issues of the day.
Seated around the large oak table in the Prime Minister's office were P.N. Haksar, newly appointed Chief of the Review and Appointment Committee, and several other trusted officials. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and determination.
"Good morning, everyone," Rohan began, his tone firm yet measured. "Lets start with the daily brefing. Haksar, how is the review process progressing?"
P.N. Haksar, a man known for his meticulous approach, responded, "Prime Minister, we're working diligently to vet candidates for various positions. The goal is to ensure that those appointed are both competent and aligned with our vision for the country. We've made considerable progress but need to remain vigilant. At the same time we are in talk with the president regarding the appointment of new chairman of Union Public Service commision" (Article 316)
Rohan nodded approvingly. "Excellent. It's crucial that we rebuild with integrity and purpose. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. Also make sure when the president is elected have him include Ethics as Mandatory subject for examination"
Before Hakar could continue the meeting was abruptly interrupted by Manisha who burst through the door, a look of urgency on her face. "Prime Minister, there's breaking news from Pakistan. There's been a military coup."
The room fell silent as Rohan processed the information. "A coup? What's the latest?"
Manisha quickly briefed them. "General Ayub Khan has taken control from the civilian government. Martial law has been declared, and there's widespread unrest."
Rohan's expression darkened. "This could have serious implications for the region. We need to act swiftly."
Haksar's face was lined with concern. "The coup in Pakistan could destabilize the entire region. We need to prepare for potential repercussions."
General Singh, the head of the military, leaned forward. "Prime Minister, the instability in Pakistan could provoke tensions along our borders. We should enhance our defenses and prepare for any provocations. Not to mention that if they want to divert domestic troubles away, a war with India is not a bad option for them"
K.N. Rao, the Chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), added, "We need to closely monitor Pakistan's foreign policy shifts. This development could affect our diplomatic relationships and require adjustments in our strategy. Especially since USA is very concern about Israel and the worsening situation in Middle East"
Rohan Agreed " Yes and with situation worsening in Middle East there will be a major shift in USA foreign policy towards pakistan because of it being a gateway to Middle East and a Muslim country"
K.P. Singh, Minister of External Affairs spoke "Prime minster, this must be taken very seriously because the Arab countries are very much interested in Paksitan and if by chance the military government try to get closer relations with USA, we can expect a total isolation in Middle East".
"Yes KP i agree, that is why I will need you to visit Washington and see what the white house is thinking at the same time you raise the issue of Nuclear Weapons" Rohans replied.
"Sir, don't you think it is too early regarding nuclear weapons" KP asked with a deep frown.
"Trust me KP, trust me, later you will only say thankful that we were to early" Rohan replied with a mystic smile. Rohan then turned to Amar who replied immediately
"Sir we should also increase our internal security measures. If there's any spillover or heightened border tensions, we need to be ready."
Rohan took a deep breath, assessing the gravity of the situation. "Agreed. We need to bolster our border security immediately and enhance our intelligence operations. General Singh, please coordinate with the defense forces and implement these measures without delay."
General Singh nodded, taking note. "Understood, Prime Minister. We'll mobilize our resources and ensure that our borders are secure."
Rohan then turned to K.N. Rao. "K.N., I need you to intensify our surveillance and intelligence gathering. The situation in Pakistan is fluid, and we need to be prepared for any potential incidents."
K.N. Rao acknowledged the directive. "I'll ensure that our operations are ramped up. We'll also engage with our international partners to gauge their responses and adjust our strategies accordingly."
As the discussion continued, Rohan's recieved another urgent update. It was from long distance call from V.K. Krishna Menon, the Home Minister who is visiting areas that saw protest due to corruption in the aid, so as to give them assurance and pacify them
"Prime minister, I'm receiving reports of unrest in the border regions. The local authorities are on high alert. We might need to intervene."
Rohan responded decisively. "Krishna, ensure that the local authorities are fully briefed and prepared. We cannot afford any lapses in security."
The room was filled with a sense of urgency as Sardar Patel, who was not in good health ever since the military coup where he felt responsible for the biggest blunder in his career entered. "Prime Minister, I've been following the news. This coup could be a significant threat to our stability. How do you plan to address it?"
"Sardar why are you here, you should be resting and not worry about all this". Replied Rohan with a deep sense of worry because he knew historically he died in 1950 but right now he is still alive but the military coup has hit him hard and age has continued to erode his body.
"Don't worry prime minister, I have fought the British and defeated them what is this mere Illness or death, if you asked me atleast death is kind unlike the British." Laughed Sardar Patel with confidence in his voice.
Rohan looked at Patel with determination. "We're implementing increased border security and enhancing our intelligence operations. We must stay vigilant and responsive to any developments."
Suresh Patel nodded in agreement. "I'll ensure that my team is aligned with these new measures."
------
The day continued with a flurry of activity. Rohan called an emergency meeting with General Singh, K.N. Rao, and Amar Singh to review the latest developments.
"General Singh, K.N., Amar," Rohan began, "we need to ensure that our response is swift and effective. What are the latest updates on the situation in Pakistan?"
General Singh reported, "We've increased border patrols and fortified key positions. We're coordinating with local commanders to ensure immediate responses to any potential threats."
K.N. Rao added, "We've reached out to our international partners to gauge their responses. There's concern about the stability of the region, but no immediate coordinated actions from other nations."
Amar Singh interjected, "We've ramped up our surveillance and intelligence gathering. Our forces are on high alert, and we're prepared for any potential incidents."
Rohan nodded, satisfied with their progress. "Let's remain vigilant and ensure that our measures are implemented effectively. The situation in Pakistan is unpredictable, and we need to be prepared for any eventuality."
-------
Later in the day, Rohan met with P.N. Haksar to review the progress of the government appointments and reforms. Haksar briefed him on the ongoing efforts. "Prime Minister, we're making steady progress with the appointments. We've identified several key candidates for important positions."
Rohan looked at Haksar with approval. "That's good to hear. We need to ensure that our appointments are both strategic and effective. The integrity of our government depends on this process."
As Haksar walked away, Rohan's thoughts were interrupted by Neeraj Kumar, his close advisor. "Prime Minister, we need to address the political implications of the coup. This could influence affect our domestic policies. as you know there are still many Muslim who dream of making a new Paksitan with Dhaka as the Capital."
Rohan responded, "Don't worry Neeraj, I am well aware of the intention of those living there. Nobody in this world, not even god should think that India is something they can easily Butcher"