India’s Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, and his family have been subjected to severe online abuse and personal attacks following the recent agreement between India and Pakistan to halt military actions. The ceasefire deal, which marked a significant de-escalation of tensions, has sparked controversy, with some social media users targeting Misri personally, even involving his daughters in the abuse.
Abusive terms such as “Traitor,” “Gaddar,” and “Deshdrohi” were directed at Misri, and several posts questioned the citizenship of his daughters. While these online attacks have garnered attention, there has also been significant condemnation from users who criticized the personal nature of the assaults, urging for respectful discourse and decrying the doxxing and vitriol.
The controversy stems from a series of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, sparked by the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, primarily tourists. Misri’s recent statements regarding the escalation have also stirred online debate.
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In a press briefing on May 8, Misri clarified India’s position, emphasizing that the responsibility for de-escalation rested with Pakistan. He maintained that India’s actions were strictly retaliatory in nature and came after Pakistan’s involvement in the attack. Misri reiterated that India’s response was not aimed at escalating tensions but rather at addressing the immediate threat posed by the attack. “Pakistan escalated the situation; we only responded,” he said, noting that the choice to de-escalate remained in Pakistan’s hands.
On May 9, Misri also announced the suspension of services at the Kartarpur Sahib corridor due to security concerns. Speaking to the press, he stated that the corridor would remain closed until further notice due to the prevailing security situation.
While some have rallied behind Misri, calling for a focus on dialogue rather than divisive rhetoric, the situation underscores the ongoing sensitivity surrounding the Kashmir conflict and the high stakes involved in the bilateral relationship between India and Pakistan.
