Overview: On 14 May 2026, National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah publicly supported the remarks of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) functionary Dattatreya Hosabale that India should pursue dialogue with Pakistan rather than resort to war. He also welcomed former Army chief M.M. Naravane for backing the same view.
Key Developments
- Hosabale, in a PTI interview on 12 May 2026, emphasized people‑to‑people contact as essential to breaking the deadlock with Pakistan and urged a permanent window for dialogue.
- Abdullah described the RSS leader’s stance as a "big move" and praised the convergence of civil‑society and former military leadership against war.
- During the ongoing BRICS summit in New Delhi, Abdullah expressed hope that the grouping could aid peace initiatives in West Asia.
- He welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to China, signalling broader geopolitical awareness.
- Commenting on the government’s recent austerity measures, including the reduction of Union Ministers’ cavalcades, Abdullah linked them to the ongoing fuel crisis and urged broader compliance.