Congress leader Manish Tewari on Wednesday took a dig at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) leader Dattatreya Hosabale over his remarks on Pakistan, questioning whether the RSS is being nudged by a hyper power beholden to Pakistan. Tewari's comments came a day after Hosabale stated that Pakistan's military and political leadership have lost India's confidence and that it is time for civil society to lead the way in bilateral relations.
Tewari's Sharp Response
Taking to social media, Tewari wrote, "Is the RSS being nudged by a hyper power that is beholden to Pakistan?" He further asked, "What is the RSS's sudden fascination with Pakistan's civil society?" The Congress leader's remarks were seen as a pointed critique of the Sangh's ideological stance on foreign policy matters.
Hosabale's Original Remarks
Earlier, at an event in New Delhi, RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale had said, "Pakistan's military and political leadership have lost India's confidence. It is time for civil society in both countries to lead the way in building trust and cooperation." He emphasized that people-to-people contacts could help bridge the gap between the two nations.
Hosabale's statement was interpreted by some as a shift in the RSS's traditionally hardline approach towards Pakistan. However, Tewari's sharp rebuttal suggests that the Congress party views the remarks with suspicion, implying possible external influence on the Sangh.
Political Reactions
The exchange has sparked a debate in political circles. While BJP leaders defended Hosabale, stating that his remarks were in line with India's consistent policy of engaging with Pakistan's civil society, opposition parties questioned the timing and intent behind the statement.
Political analyst Dr. Radhika Menon said, "Tewari's comment reflects the deep mistrust between the Congress and the RSS. It also highlights the complex dynamics of India-Pakistan relations, where any overture is viewed with skepticism."
Background
India-Pakistan relations have been strained for decades, with issues such as Kashmir and cross-border terrorism hindering peace efforts. The RSS, as the ideological parent of the ruling BJP, has often advocated a strong stance against Pakistan. Hosabale's remarks, which seemed to soften that stance, have thus drawn attention.
Tewari, a former Union minister, has been a vocal critic of the RSS and the BJP government. His latest salvo is likely to intensify the political debate on India's foreign policy approach towards its western neighbor.
