NEW DELHI: Senior leaders linked to India’s nationalist establishment have called for continued engagement with Pakistan despite ongoing tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
Dattatreya Hosabale, a top leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, stated that India should keep diplomatic communication channels open with Pakistan. Speaking to media, Hosabale said dialogue remains necessary even during periods of political and military strain.
He emphasized that diplomatic relations, trade activities, and visa services should continue because maintaining communication creates opportunities for peaceful engagement. Moreover, Hosabale referred to former Indian prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Lahore bus diplomacy as an example of outreach despite tensions.
Hosabale also mentioned that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited Pakistani leadership during his oath-taking ceremony, highlighting previous attempts to improve bilateral ties.
Former Army Chief Highlights Public Connections
Meanwhile, former Indian army chief Manoj Mukund Naravane supported similar views, stressing the importance of people-to-people contact between both countries.
Naravane stated that ordinary citizens on both sides of the border face similar daily challenges. Therefore, stronger public interaction could help improve relations and reduce hostility over time.
However, the remarks reportedly triggered criticism from opposition parties, particularly the Indian National Congress, amid continuing political tensions surrounding Pakistan policy.
Relations Remain Strained After Recent Conflict
Relations between India and Pakistan have remained tense in recent years, with diplomatic engagement largely suspended and border clashes occurring periodically.
Furthermore, both countries experienced a brief military confrontation in May 2025 before a ceasefire agreement reportedly mediated by the United States ended hostilities on May 10.
Analysts believe recent statements from influential Indian figures could revive debate over future diplomatic engagement between the two nuclear-armed neighbours despite ongoing mistrust and security concerns.
