Over 100 Eminent Indians, Pakistanis Urge PM Modi and PM Shehbaz to Restore Dialogue, Ease Bilateral Tensions
New Delhi, July 1: Amid continuing tensions between India and Pakistan, more than 100 prominent public figures from both countries have jointly appealed for the restoration of peace and diplomatic engagement. A total of 117 signatories have endorsed an open letter issued by the Centre for Peace and Progress, urging the leadership of both nations to take concrete and long-term steps towards rebuilding trust and normalising bilateral relations.
The letter has been addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling for the revival of dialogue, diplomatic engagement and people-to-people exchanges between the two neighbours.
Appeal for Peace and Normalisation
The signatories argue that prolonged hostility between India and Pakistan has imposed significant costs on both societies, particularly on the younger generation. According to the letter, persistent tensions have affected opportunities for education, economic growth, regional cooperation and long-term stability.
The group has urged both governments to work towards restoring normal relations through sustained dialogue and confidence-building measures.
Key Recommendations
The open letter proposes several steps to improve bilateral relations, including:
Restoration of full diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan.
Reappointment of High Commissioners in New Delhi and Islamabad.
Resumption of regular visa services for ordinary citizens.
Revival of structured bilateral dialogue on issues of mutual concern.
Expansion of people-to-people contacts.
Promotion of cultural, religious and academic exchanges to improve mutual understanding.
The signatories say these measures could help reduce mistrust and create an environment conducive to lasting peace.
Indian Signatories
Among the 61 Indian signatories are several well-known political and public figures, including:
National Conference president Dr. Farooq Abdullah
Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq
PDP president Mehbooba Mufti
RJD MP Manoj Jha
AJUP leader Humayun Kabir
The letter has also been endorsed by other academics, civil society members and public intellectuals from both countries.
Background
India-Pakistan relations have remained strained over issues including cross-border terrorism, Kashmir and diplomatic disagreements. Bilateral dialogue has remained limited in recent years, while diplomatic representation and visa services have also been scaled down.
The open letter represents a civil society initiative and does not reflect any official position of either the Government of India or the Government of Pakistan. Whether the appeal leads to any policy changes or renewed diplomatic engagement remains to be seen.