New Delhi, Nov. 1 -- History's strange turns can have tragic consequences. In October and November 1962, as winter's bitter chill began to set in, Chinese troops drew India into a devastating conflict that ended in a crushing national setback.

Today, 64 years later, the political cauldron is being stirred again over purported incursions in the Northeast. While the government has cleared the air, faceless keyboard warriors and an anxious opposition remain up in arms.

The only departure from that bygone era is an ironic twist of political fortunes. The ideological heirs of those who raised hell in 1962 are now in power, while the political descendants of that era's ruling establishment occupy the opposition benches.

However, an uncomfort...