Terrorism – RSS Leader Calls for Firm Action and Continued India-Pakistan Dialogue

Terrorism –  India should maintain a balanced approach towards Pakistan by continuing counter-terror measures while preserving diplomatic communication channels.

Dattatreya Hosabale, the second-highest functionary in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh after chief Mohan Bhagwat, has said India must respond strongly to Pakistan-backed cross-border terrorism while continuing efforts to keep diplomatic communication alive between the two neighbouring countries.

Speaking during a podcast interaction with PTI on Tuesday, Hosabale underlined the need for a dual approach that combines national security measures with diplomatic outreach. He stated that safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and dignity should remain a priority whenever incidents linked to terrorism take place.

Reference to Vajpayee’s Diplomatic Outreach

While discussing India’s past engagement with Pakistan, Hosabale recalled former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s attempts to improve bilateral relations despite difficult circumstances. He mentioned Vajpayee’s well-known bus journey to Lahore as an example of maintaining dialogue even during periods of political strain.

According to Hosabale, multiple initiatives have already been undertaken by successive Indian governments to engage Pakistan diplomatically. He also pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited Pakistani leadership during his oath-taking ceremony as part of broader regional outreach efforts.

He suggested that such diplomatic attempts should not be completely abandoned, even if earlier initiatives failed to deliver long-term stability.

Strong Stand Against Terror Activities

Hosabale described Pakistan as a persistent but smaller threat capable of triggering serious incidents such as terror attacks. Referring indirectly to attacks like Pulwama, he said India must react appropriately based on the situation and ensure that national security concerns are addressed without hesitation.

He stressed that governments are responsible for protecting both the safety and self-respect of the nation. In his remarks, he indicated that decisive action against terrorism remains necessary whenever security threats emerge from across the border.

At the same time, he clarified that taking a strict position against terrorism should not mean cutting off every form of communication with Pakistan.

Importance of Maintaining Dialogue

Hosabale argued that diplomatic engagement continues to play an important role in regional stability. He said countries maintain embassies, issue visas, and continue trade relations precisely to ensure that communication channels remain available during difficult times.

He added that India should avoid shutting down all avenues of interaction because dialogue can help reduce tensions over the long term. According to him, keeping limited engagement alive creates opportunities for future understanding between the two sides.

The RSS leader also supported the continuation of sporting exchanges between India and Pakistan. He described sports as one of the few remaining areas where people-to-people contact can still contribute positively to relations between the two nations.

Civil Society Connections Still Matter

Speaking about cultural and historical ties, Hosabale said ordinary citizens from both countries continue to share deep social and civilisational links despite political disagreements. He expressed hope that civil society interactions could eventually help improve relations at a broader level.

He stated that the two countries have longstanding cultural connections and a shared historical background, which makes continued engagement important even during tense periods.

However, Hosabale made it clear that maintaining dialogue should not be interpreted as weakness on terrorism-related matters. He repeated that strict action against terror networks and cross-border violence must remain non-negotiable.

Remarks Come Amid Rising Bilateral Tensions

Hosabale’s comments come during a period of heightened tension between India and Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam attack and the developments linked to Operation Sindoor. Relations between the two countries have remained strained amid ongoing security concerns and diplomatic challenges.

His remarks reflect an approach that supports continued vigilance against terrorism while leaving space for diplomatic and cultural engagement wherever possible.