BJP's Ram Madhav Dismisses Reports of Track-2 Talks with Pakistan
New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ram Madhav on Tuesday refuted claims that informal backchannel or track-2 talks were underway between India and Pakistan. In a statement to the media, Madhav termed such reports as 'baseless and speculative'.
Track-2 diplomacy refers to unofficial dialogues involving academics, former officials, and civil society members, often aimed at reducing tensions. Recent media reports had suggested that such efforts were being revived amid strained bilateral relations.
Madhav, who has previously served as the BJP's national general secretary, said that 'no official or unofficial channels are discussing anything with Pakistan at this stage'. He added that the government's position remains unchanged: dialogue cannot proceed until cross-border terrorism and hostility cease.
India-Pakistan relations have been frozen since August 2019, when India revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan downgraded diplomatic ties and suspended bilateral trade. Occasional ceasefire violations along the Line of Control have further strained ties.
Experts note that track-2 talks have occasionally served as a prelude to formal engagements. However, with political temperatures high, such initiatives have found little traction. The denial by a senior BJP figure underscores the current official stance.
No comment was available from the Ministry of External Affairs or Pakistan's representatives. The claim of track-2 talks had circulated in a section of the media, citing unnamed sources.
