Ambivalent India

DIALOGUE is the only path for resolving outstanding disputes between Pakistan and India, particularly the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has consistently and persistently advocated for meaningful engagement, emphasizing that negotiations not confrontation offer the only realistic hope for lasting peace and stability in the region. Yet, regrettably, the political discourse in India often reduces this critical issue to partisan point-scoring rather than serious diplomacy, undermining opportunities for progress. In his recent remarks, RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale highlighted the importance of keeping channels of dialogue open with Pakistan. He stressed the need for continued diplomatic engagement, trade, visa issuance and people-to-people interactions, pointing to historical examples such as former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Lahore bus visit. Hosabale also suggested that civil society initiatives, cultural exchanges and sporting engagements could play a constructive role in fostering understanding and trust between the two countries. Such statements, rare as they are from the RSS, remind us that even hardline elements recognize the practical necessity of engagement. However, these remarks were quickly met with sharp criticism from Congress leaders. Jairam Ramesh mocked Hosabale’s position, while the party accused the RSS and the BJP of maintaining contradictory stances. The political exploitation of Indo-Pak relations is regrettable, as it shifts focus from dialogue and confidence-building measures to rhetoric aimed at scoring domestic points. It must be acknowledged that while Pakistan has repeatedly expressed willingness to engage in talks, the onus to create a conducive environment rests with India. Mere statements about dialogue, whether from the RSS or the ruling party, carry little significance without tangible measures that demonstrate seriousness and a commitment to mutual trust. For dialogue to be effective, India must shed r