RSS Chief Bhagwat: Dialogue with Pakistan Open, "We're Not Like Hitler"
RSS Chief Bhagwat: Dialogue with Pakistan Open, "We're Not Like Hitler"
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat clarifies stance on Pakistan dialogue, defending Dattatreya Hosabale's remarks and asserting the organization's alignment with Centre's foreign policy.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has reiterated the importance of keeping the doors of dialogue open with Pakistan, while also clarifying the organization's position on foreign affairs. His comments came in defense of RSS functionary Dattatreya Hosabale, who had previously advocated for engagement with Pakistan.
Bhagwat emphasized that Hosabale's remarks referred specifically to the people of Pakistan, many of whom, according to Bhagwat, believe that the partition of India was a mistake. He highlighted that there are even journalists in Pakistan who "praise" the work done by the RSS, suggesting an "undercurrent" of sentiment against the two-nation theory and a desire for peaceful coexistence. "We're not like Hitler," Bhagwat reportedly stated, reinforcing a non-confrontational approach when it comes to people-to-people relations.
The RSS chief also made it clear that the organization does not possess an independent foreign policy. He affirmed that the RSS stands firmly in line with the Centre's policy regarding Pakistan and other international matters, dispelling any notion of the Sangh dictating or diverging from government foreign policy.
These statements build upon Hosabale's earlier interview where he stressed the need to protect India's security and self-respect, while simultaneously being "always ready to engage them in a dialogue." His comments, made in response to questions about dealing with Pakistan and its sponsorship of terrorism, sought a balanced approach that prioritized national security without completely shutting down communication channels.
Furthermore, Bhagwat addressed the perception of the RSS itself, describing it as the world's largest voluntary body, yet often "most misunderstood." He explained that efforts are being made to clarify misconceptions about the organization, which some view as anything from a paramilitary group to a mere gymnasium. Bhagwat suggested that direct engagement is the best way to truly understand the Sangh's century-long mission focused on national welfare. This clarification underscores the RSS's efforts to present itself as a nationalistic and constructive organization, aligning its public statements with broader national interests and governmental foreign policy.
