In a moment of rare unity across party lines, Parliament’s Standing Committee on External Affairs—chaired by Shashi Tharoor—firmly rallied behind Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who has come under intense online trolling following India’s strategic engagement with Pakistan, termed “Operation Sindoor.”
A Diplomatic Briefing Amid Tensions
Misri appeared before the committee on Monday to deliver a classified briefing on the developments that followed the April 22 terrorist strike in Pahalgam. The Foreign Secretary confirmed that despite the scale of Operation Sindoor, both India and Pakistan exercised restraint with no nuclear posturing involved. He highlighted the diplomatic maneuvers that led to a ceasefire, emphasizing India’s commitment to regional stability.
Bipartisan Condemnation of Online Harassment
Post-briefing, Tharoor and all panel members condemned the targeted online abuse against Misri—especially the malicious sharing of his daughter’s personal contact details, which forced him to secure his digital presence.
“There was widespread sentiment to formally stand with the Foreign Secretary,” Tharoor noted. “He personally declined a resolution, but the committee stands united in acknowledging his steadfast service to the nation during a critical juncture.”
NCW Raises Alarm Over Privacy Breach
Echoing the panel’s support, the National Commission for Women (NCW) slammed the online intrusion. Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar called the doxxing of Misri’s daughter a dangerous breach of privacy and called on citizens to uphold basic decency in digital spaces.
Tharoor Dispels Political Speculations
When asked about reported backlash from within the Congress party for his remarks on India’s Pakistan strategy, Tharoor clarified that no formal warning had been issued and reiterated that his statements reflected thoughtful national interest, not party politics.
