Congress has distanced itself from remarks made by Mani Shankar Aiyar regarding Pakistan, asserting that his views do not represent the party's stance.
In response to Aiyar's suggestion of engaging in dialogue with Pakistan, the All India Congress Committee media department chairman, Pawan Khera, emphasised that Aiyar's opinions were his own and not reflective of the party's position.
Khera underscored the Congress's commitment to India's sovereignty and the importance of decisions guided by national interest.
Highlighting significant historical events under Congress leadership, Khera recalled Indira Gandhi's pivotal role in the creation of Bangladesh in 1971 and the announcement of India's nuclear capability in 1974. He reiterated the party's belief in prioritising supreme national interest in decision-making processes.
Earlier, Mani Shankar Aiyar's comments from an interview sparked controversy, where he advocated for dialogue with Pakistan, acknowledging it as a sovereign and respected nation. Aiyar's remarks were criticised by BJP leaders, with Union Minister Rajiv Chandrasekhar attributing them to Congress's ideology.
In the interview, Aiyar urged for dialogue with Pakistan to prevent escalating tensions and emphasised the mutual possession of atomic bombs by both nations. He cautioned against dismissing Pakistan, suggesting that neglect could lead to dire consequences, including the misuse of atomic weapons.
Aiyar's statements reignited debates on India-Pakistan relations, with contrasting views on diplomatic approaches and national security strategies. While Aiyar's stance garnered criticism from BJP leaders, it also prompted discussions on the significance of diplomatic engagement in managing regional conflicts and promoting peace.