A recent study by the Pew Research Center highlights a persistent and significant divide in public sentiment between India and Pakistan. The data indicates that people in both countries largely harbor unfavorable views of their neighboring nation and its populace, with a notable majority expressing deep mistrust.
Unfavorable Perceptions Dominate
The research clearly demonstrates that a substantial proportion of citizens on both sides of the border hold negative perceptions. In India, a staggering 91 percent of respondents expressed unfavorable views of Pakistan, comprising 78 percent who felt 'very unfavorable' and 18 percent 'somewhat unfavorable'. Conversely, in Pakistan, 78 percent held unfavorable views of India, with 65 percent being 'very unfavorable' and 13 percent 'somewhat unfavorable'.
Only a small minority reported favorable opinions, with 7 percent of Indians and 8 percent of Pakistanis viewing the other country positively. Interestingly, the study noted that Muslims in India showed slightly more favorable views towards Pakistan (21 percent) compared to Hindus (6 percent).
Mutual Distrust and Perceived Threats
Beyond unfavorable views, the study underscores a profound mutual distrust. Majorities in both India and Pakistan believe their own government and people are committed to fostering good bilateral relations, but critically, they do not extend this belief to the other side. This lack of faith permeates perceptions of each nation's commitment to improving ties.
Reinforcing this distrust, both countries largely agree that their greatest geopolitical threat is each other. Over half of Indians (54 percent) identified Pakistan as their country's primary threat, while 43 percent of Pakistanis named India. India also sees China as a significant threat (21 percent), whereas Pakistan views Israel and the United States (24 percent) as additional major threats.
Identified Allies and International Views
The Pew data also sheds light on the international alliances and perceptions held by citizens in both nations. For Indians, Russia emerges as a key ally, with 36 percent believing so. Furthermore, 58 percent of Indians hold positive views of Russia, and 51 percent express confidence in President Vladimir Putin. Notably, Indians ranked among the most positive towards Russia in the Pew survey.
In Pakistan, China is overwhelmingly seen as the biggest ally by 75 percent of respondents. Public opinion towards China is highly positive, with 90 percent expressing favorable views, and 83 percent having confidence in President Xi Jinping. These findings illustrate distinct geopolitical orientations and allegiances in the region.