Ex-Indian Army Chief Supports Dialogue Between Pakistan and India

RSS Leader Calls for Open Communication

NEW DELHI: Former Indian army chief Manoj Naravane has backed recent remarks by Dattatreya Hosabale supporting continued dialogue between Pakistan and India despite ongoing tensions.

In an interview with Press Trust of India, Hosabale stressed that communication channels between both countries should remain open. He also described people-to-people contact as important for improving bilateral relations.

Dialogue and Security Both Highlighted

Hosabale stated that India must respond firmly to security threats whenever necessary. He referred to incidents such as the Pulwama attack while discussing regional security concerns.

At the same time, he emphasized that diplomatic engagement should continue.

According to the RSS leader, trade, visas, and diplomatic relations should not be completely suspended between the two neighboring countries.

Naravane Supports People-to-People Contact

Supporting those remarks, Manoj Naravane said ordinary citizens on both sides of the border shared similar daily concerns and should not remain trapped in political disputes.

He said stronger relations between citizens could help improve ties between both countries over time.

Naravane also stressed the importance of cultural exchanges, sporting events, and Track-II diplomacy initiatives.

India’s Peace Approach Explained

The former army chief stated that India believed in resolving disputes through dialogue and discussion.

However, he added that the country would not hesitate to use military strength if required for national security.

According to Naravane, peace and preparedness could exist together in foreign policy.

Mumbai Attacks Described as Turning Point

During the interview, Hosabale described the 2008 Mumbai attacks as a major turning point in Pakistan-India relations.

He said trust between the two countries had weakened significantly after the attacks.

Hosabale also claimed that cultural and civil society connections between both nations should continue despite political disagreements.

Congress Criticizes RSS Remarks

India’s opposition Indian National Congress reacted strongly to the RSS leader’s comments.

Congress leaders accused the RSS of showing “love for Pakistan” and criticized the timing of the remarks.

Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioned how supporters of the ruling government would have reacted if similar statements had been made by opposition figures.

The RSS is widely regarded as the ideological parent organization of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party.

Regional Peace Debate Continues

Political observers believe the remarks have reopened debate over the future of Pakistan-India relations.

Analysts say calls for dialogue from influential Indian figures may encourage renewed discussion on diplomacy, trade, sports, and regional stability in South Asia.