Omar Abdullah Pushes for India-Pak Dialogue, Cites RSS & Vajpayee
Omar Abdullah Pushes for India-Pak Dialogue, Cites RSS & Vajpayee
J&K CM Omar Abdullah champions renewed India-Pakistan talks, citing RSS leaders and former PM Vajpayee's views on neighborly ties. A crucial call for peace amid cross-border tensions.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly advocated for the resumption of dialogue between India and Pakistan, emphasizing that it's the only effective way to de-escalate tensions and improve bilateral relations. Speaking on the matter, Abdullah highlighted the importance of neighborly ties, referencing sentiments expressed by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and even citing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat's support for dialogue.
Abdullah pointed out what he perceives as a double standard, noting that when J&K politicians call for improved relations with Pakistan, they often face significant criticism, sometimes even being labeled as 'anti-national'. However, he observed that similar calls from senior RSS leaders advocating for open talks do not encounter the same level of backlash. "No one objects when the RSS says it," he stated, questioning the disparate reactions.
The Chief Minister specifically referred to a recent open letter signed by over 100 prominent individuals from both India and Pakistan. This letter, addressed to the Prime Ministers of both countries, requests initiatives to improve relations and resume dialogue, particularly concerning Kashmir. Abdullah supported this collective appeal, asserting that there should be no objection to finding ways to foster better ties between the two nations.
Recalling former PM Vajpayee's famous adage, "one can change friends but not neighbours," Abdullah underscored that his party has consistently desired improved relations with the neighboring country. He acknowledged that cross-border tensions have persisted for decades and worsened following events like the Pahalgam terror attack last year. Despite the consistent stance of J&K leaders on dialogue, he lamented the criticism they often receive, contrasting it with the welcome given to similar calls for peace from other quarters. He stressed that advocating dialogue and normalization of relations should not be controversial, regardless of who voices it.
