Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has issued a stark warning about an alarming new security threat facing India. He pointed to a disturbing trend where highly educated individuals from professional backgrounds are becoming involved with terrorist organizations. Singh described this development as a significant and dangerous shift in the nature of terrorism within the country.
A New Face of Terrorism Emerges
Speaking at an event in Jammu, the Defence Minister expressed deep concern over this evolution. He revealed that security agencies are now encountering terror modules composed not of traditional recruits, but of doctors, engineers, and other white-collar professionals. This marks a stark departure from earlier patterns and presents a complex challenge for law enforcement and intelligence bodies.
Singh emphasized that these individuals are leveraging their education and social standing to operate in a more clandestine and sophisticated manner. Their integration into mainstream society makes them harder to detect and their activities more difficult to trace, posing a unique threat to national security.
The Jammu and Kashmir Context and a Call for Unity
The minister made these remarks in the context of the ongoing situation in Jammu and Kashmir. He asserted that the region is now on a firm path towards peace and development. Singh credited the people of Jammu and Kashmir for rejecting terrorism and actively participating in the democratic process. He highlighted the successful conduct of elections and increased tourist footfall as signs of positive change.
However, he cautioned that the threat persists in new forms. Rajnath Singh called for unwavering national unity in the face of these challenges. He stated that the nation's strength lies in its collective resolve to counter any forces that seek to destabilize it. The minister urged citizens to remain vigilant and support the efforts of security forces.
Government's Stance on Dialogue and Zero Tolerance
Addressing the government's policy, the Defence Minister reiterated a firm stance. He declared that India is willing to engage in dialogue with its neighbours, including Pakistan, but only in an environment free from terrorism. He made it clear that the country will not tolerate any cross-border terrorist activities and is fully prepared to give a befitting response to any aggression.
Singh praised the bravery and dedication of the Indian Armed Forces, stating that the nation has full faith in their capability to protect its sovereignty. He concluded by emphasizing that the government's primary duty is to ensure the security of its citizens and the integrity of its borders, a duty it is committed to fulfilling with utmost seriousness.
