Ex-Army Chief Manoj Mukund Naravane Endorses RSS Leader’s Pakistan Outreach Remarks
Ex-military commander says dialogue, cultural exchanges and public interaction can help reduce hostility between neighbouring nations
Mumbai, May 14: Former Indian Army Chief Manoj Mukund Naravane on Wednesday stressed the importance of strengthening civilian-level engagement between India and Pakistan, asserting that ordinary citizens on both sides share similar aspirations and daily struggles despite political tensions between the two countries.
Speaking during an interaction on the sidelines of a literary event in Mumbai, Naravane supported recent observations made by RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale regarding the need to maintain communication channels and encourage social interaction between people of the neighbouring nations.
The retired Army General said common citizens are primarily concerned with essential aspects of life such as livelihood, security and family welfare, rather than geopolitical disputes. According to him, stronger human connections can gradually contribute to better understanding and improved bilateral relations.
Naravane remarked that promoting interaction through informal diplomatic efforts, cultural exchanges and sporting activities could help bridge the emotional divide that has widened over decades of conflict and mistrust. He added that citizens in both countries should not automatically view each other as adversaries.
The former military chief made the remarks while attending a book-signing event for his latest publication, Curious and the Classified: Unearthing Military Myths and Mysteries, at a Mumbai bookstore.
His comments came a day after Hosabale emphasised the significance of maintaining avenues for dialogue with Pakistan and suggested that civil society initiatives could play an important role in easing tensions when formal diplomatic trust remains limited.
Naravane also underlined that advocating peace and communication does not weaken India’s national security posture. He stated that while India has consistently promoted peaceful solutions and diplomatic engagement, the country remains fully prepared to respond firmly whenever security interests are threatened.
The remarks have gained attention amid continuing discussions on regional stability, cross-border relations and the future of diplomatic engagement between India and Pakistan.
