Hardeep Jamwal, JNM Journalist, Jammu
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat made a significant statement regarding Pakistan, asserting that while India must adopt a tough stance against terrorism and injustice, avenues for dialogue with the common people of Pakistan should not be completely shut off. He clarified that the RSS does not have a separate foreign policy regarding Pakistan and that the organization always supports the policy of the central government.
Speaking at an interactive event held in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, as part of the RSS centenary year celebrations, Bhagwat noted that there are still many people in Pakistan who believe that the partition of India was a historic mistake. He claimed that numerous Pakistani journalists and intellectuals appreciate the work of the RSS and oppose the ‘Two-Nation Theory.’
Bhagwat mentioned that there is a section within Pakistan that believes it would have been better for the people of both nations to live together. He stated that even if India were to completely defeat Pakistan in the future, the people there would still need to be treated humanely; therefore, keeping some channels of dialogue open is essential.
The RSS chief said, “We do not believe in Hitler’s ideology. Our nature and culture are rooted not in destruction, but in reform and harmony. Injustice and oppression must end, but it is also important to preserve what is good.”
He emphasized that while Pakistan-sponsored terrorism must be countered with full force, the possibility of dialogue should not be entirely ruled out from diplomatic and humanitarian perspectives.
It is worth noting that senior RSS functionary Dattatreya Hosabale had also recently stated in an interview that while national security and self-respect are paramount, the doors to dialogue should not be closed. He held the view that the possibility of conversation should remain open under any circumstance.
This statement by Mohan Bhagwat is being viewed as significant in the context of India-Pakistan relations and regional peace. However, he also clarified that the final policy and decisions regarding Pakistan fall within the jurisdiction of the Central Government, and the RSS supports them.
