Former Army Chief General MM Naravane with his new book ‘Curious and Secretive: Unraveling Military Myths and Mysteries’ at an event in Mumbai on May 13, 2026. | Photo credit: PTI
Former Army General (retd) Manoj Naravane has endorsed RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale’s stance of promoting dialogue and people-to-people relations with neighboring Pakistan, saying such engagements are “important”.
The former army chief said the basic struggles of the “common man”, namely the basic needs of “roti, kapda and makan” (food, clothing and shelter) are identical on both sides of the border.
“….A common man has nothing to do with politics. When there is friendship between two people, there will also be friendship between two nations,” Mr Naravane told PTI on the sidelines of an event in Mumbai on Wednesday (May 13, 2026).
He was reacting to RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale’s statement regarding the desirability of engaging in dialogue.
“It is the right thing to do. People-to-people contact is important,” Naravane said, reaffirming that such contact remains a key element in ensuring regional stability.
The former army chief visited a bookshop in the city to sign his new book ‘Curious and Secretive: Unraveling Military Myths and Mysteries’.
Speaking to PTI Videos, Mr. Hosabale said that people-to-people contact is the key to breaking the deadlock with Pakistan and there should always be a window for dialogue.
Pakistan’s military and political leadership have lost the confidence of India and it is time for civil society to lead the way, the RSS leader said.
Mr Naravane said there should be a people-to-people connection between the two countries, be it through ‘second track’ diplomacy or sporting events. “Even our people should know that those who remain beyond the border are not sworn enemies,” he said.
“Disputes should be resolved through discussion, but that does not mean we cannot use military force. India is a country that speaks the language of peace, but we will not hesitate to use force if necessary,” he added.
Published – 14 May 2026 10:41 IST
