Farooq Abdullah Backs Dialogue with Pakistan Over War

In a significant development, National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has expressed support for RSS functionary Dattatreya Hosabale's call for dialogue with Pakistan, insisting that war must be avoided. The former three-time Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister emphasized the necessity for discussions to resolve conflicts.

Abdullah also welcomed the endorsement from ex-Army Chief M M Naravane towards Hosabale's stance, highlighting the importance of initiatives that promote people-to-people contact to break the deadlock between India and Pakistan. Such an approach, the RSS leader suggests, places the onus on civil society to bridge divides where political channels have faltered.

Further commenting on current international events, Abdullah expressed optimism that the ongoing BRICS conclave in New Delhi could catalyze peace efforts in the Middle East. Additionally, he praised austerity measures such as the downsizing of government cavalcades during a fuel crisis, calling it a responsible response to the ongoing shortage.

(With inputs from agencies.)