Operation Sindoor: Opp leaders come out in Foreign Secy support over social media attacks
New Delhi, May 13, 2025 — A rare political consensus emerged on Monday as several opposition leaders voiced strong support for the Foreign Secretary. She has faced a wave of personal criticism and targeted trolling on social media following developments related to Operation Sindoor.
What Is Operation Sindoor?
Although the government hasn’t officially disclosed details, Operation Sindoor reportedly involves a strategic intelligence and diplomatic mission tied to national security. Speculation has spread across media channels, with some reports suggesting it includes covert diplomacy and cross-border engagement.
Social Media Turns Hostile
As speculation around the mission grew, users on social media platforms launched intense personal attacks on the Foreign Secretary. The criticism questioned her integrity and professionalism. This wave of online harassment triggered a strong reaction from the opposition, which quickly united in her defense.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi wrote on X:
“The dignity of our public servants must remain intact. Targeting the Foreign Secretary for doing her duty is unacceptable. We stand with those who serve the country with integrity.”
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav added:
“When political vendetta targets our diplomats, it isn’t patriotism — it’s sabotage. We demand accountability from those spreading this toxic narrative.”
Bipartisan Support Surfaces
Leaders from both national and regional parties, including TMC and DMK, rallied in support. They praised the Foreign Secretary’s record and condemned the trend of targeting bureaucrats over unverified claims.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee commented:
“If civil servants can’t function freely and fearlessly, democracy suffers. We must stop this dangerous trend of online abuse.”
MEA Stands Firm
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed full confidence in the Foreign Secretary. Though it didn’t respond directly to the social media backlash, officials emphasized her professionalism and service record.
An MEA spokesperson stated:
“The Foreign Secretary has performed her duties with commitment and integrity. We encourage the public to verify facts before believing online claims.”
Former Diplomats Speak Out
Retired diplomats and civil servants also stepped into the discussion, warning against the growing trend of online harassment. They stressed the need to protect senior officials from political smear campaigns.
Former Ambassador Nirupama Rao posted on X:
“Let our diplomats do their work without bullying or trolling. When foreign policy gets reduced to social media outrage, national interest pays the price.”
Broader Implications
This incident has highlighted the vulnerability of civil servants — especially women in top positions — to coordinated online abuse. Many have called for better legal protections and clearer social media guidelines to safeguard the dignity of public officials.
Conclusion
The Operation Sindoor controversy may continue to unfold, but it has already sparked a critical conversation about how the nation treats its civil servants. As political figures set aside rivalry to defend a key official, the message is clear: India’s public institutions deserve respect, not harassment.
