Manoj Jha Advocates for Barrier-Free People-to-People Contact Between India and Pakistan

New Delhi, July 1: Rajya Sabha MP Manoj Kumar Jha has signed a letter advocating for dialogue between India and Pakistan. He emphasized the need to distinguish between citizen interactions and governmental discussions.

In a recent conversation, Jha reiterated his intentions, which he has clearly articulated in his letter and public statements. He pointed out the differences between the state, government, and citizens. In the digital age, music, movies, and cartoons do not require visas. Art forms like music, poetry, and stories have transcended borders since the time of Mahatma Gandhi.

He acknowledged the complex issues at the governmental level among countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Addressing water disputes, terrorism, and other sensitive matters is the responsibility of both governments. However, he stressed the importance of enhancing citizen interactions alongside these discussions. Engaging with the people should not solely depend on government negotiations, whether regarding water issues, terrorism, or other matters. There should be efforts to improve communication and understanding among citizens.

Referring to the recent events in Pahalgam, he questioned why cricket was being played in Dubai during a time of national grief. He mentioned ongoing Track-2 dialogues in Colombo, suggesting that these discussions are happening under external influence. He noted that the statements from leaders of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) over the past three months indicate a deeper narrative. His appeal is for smoother interactions among the people of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, while maintaining separate dialogues on the underlying complex disputes.

Jha pointed out that the government is not entirely disconnected from these matters. He questioned whether the Track-2 discussions in Colombo are occurring without governmental consent and highlighted the need for transparency. He reiterated his demand for efforts to make People-to-People Contact between India and Pakistan barrier-free, while continuing separate discussions on the complex and sensitive issues that exist between the two nations.

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