A statement from India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, about “taking revenge for history,” has led to intense political and social debates all around India. Opposition leaders, journalists and intellectuals have called the comments provocative, dangerous and potentially inciting hatred against the minorities.
Meanwhile, the BJP and some pro-government voices have come to Doval’s defense saying his words were taken out of context.
Critics point to the negative consequences such rhetoric may have, not only for reopening old wounds from the past but also in terms of causing present-day divisions and a source of instability.
Strong criticism from the opposition and civil society on Ajit Doval’s “revenge of history” comments.
Mehbooba Mufti and some other critics said the statement is inflammatory and hostile towards minorities.
Congress and other opposition leaders have described the statement as dangerous and provocative, stating that the National Security Advisor’s role is not to incite youth with emotional slogans, but to safeguard the country and respond to intelligence failures. Congress spokesperson Dr Shama Mohammed, citing the Pulwama and other attacks, demanded a response and resignation from Ajit Doval.
Several senior journalists and intellectuals questioned that if “revenge of history” is to be taken, it must be clarified against whom and how, while some called the statement ambiguous and misleading. Some critics also warned that such statements could deepen societal divisions and increase hatred against minorities.
The BJP and its supporters have said that the remarks were being misrepresented and that the speech should be heard in its entirety.
Supporters of Ajit Doval say that his statement was presented out of context on social media. Government backers maintain that Doval framed war and national security in an ideological context; however, overall, the statement has sparked a new political and social debate in India.
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