RSS chief Hosabale rebukes Udhayanidhi Stalin on Sanatan remarks, calls for talks with Pakistan

RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale told PTI that Sanatan Dharma is an enduring civilisational value that cannot be erased by political criticism, and that it represents India's spirit beyond a mere religious practice. He stated that 'there should not be light or shadows' but that does not mean the tradition will disappear. He noted India has preserved ancient traditions while embracing modern technology, including artificial intelligence. On India-Pakistan relations, he said trust in Pakistan’s leadership remains absent due to repeated terror attacks (including 26/11, Pulwama and Pahalgam); channels for dialogue should stay open with continued trade, visas and diplomatic engagement. He advocated stronger people-to-people contact among academicians, scientists, sportspersons and civil society to reduce hostility, and said cultural and historical ties offer hope for better ties. He attributed West Asia conflict to greed, arrogance and resource control, and said he hadn’t named any individual when asked about Trump. He argued wars are driven by strategic/economic interests, including oil, and warned about future water conflicts. He urged India to play a constructive role through restraint and dialogue and supported PM Modi’s call for austerity, noting simplicity and restraint should stay part of India's life, especially in crises.