Udaipur: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday raised alarm over the growing trend of white-collar terrorism in India, highlighting that even highly-educated professionals are increasingly engaging in anti-social and anti-national activities.
Speaking at the 104th foundation day of Bhupal Nobles’ University, Singh pointed to the November 10 car bomb blast near Delhi’s Red Fort, noting that the perpetrators involved were doctors.
White-Collar Terrorism: Highly-Educated Individuals Misusing Knowledge
“Today, an alarming trend of white-collar terrorism is emerging in the country. Highly-educated people are working against society and the country,” Singh said.
He further elaborated, “The perpetrators of the bomb blast were doctors those who write ‘Rx’ on prescriptions, yet have RDX in their hands. This highlights the need for knowledge to be accompanied by values and character.”
The defence minister stressed the broader purpose of education, “The purpose of education is not only professional success but also the development of morality, ethics and human character.”
Details of the Red Fort Blast and White-Collar Terror Module
The car carrying explosives that detonated outside the Red Fort on November 10, killing 15 people, was driven by Dr. Umar-un-Nabi.
Subsequent investigations uncovered a white-collar terror module, leading to the arrests of three other doctors Muzammil Ganai, Adeel Rather, and Shaheena Saeed among others.
India’s Defence Startups and Technological Growth
While addressing challenges, Singh also praised the work of India’s defence startups, saying, “I am confident that in the next 15-20 years, India will become fully self-reliant in weapons.”
He highlighted the role of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in transforming people’s lives and work. Singh urged that these innovations should be used positively to accelerate India’s development and self-reliance.
India’s Growing Economy and Role of Universities
Noting India’s economic progress, Singh said, India is currently the world’s fourth-largest economy and is on track to become the third-largest by 2030. He emphasized that universities have a significant role in nurturing talent and shaping the country’s journey towards growth and self-reliance.
Balancing Self-Respect and Ego
Rajnath Singh concluded by stressing the importance of maintaining the fine line between self-respect and ego, “While the feeling of self-respect is important, it should never transform into arrogance.”
He encouraged individuals to cultivate knowledge, ethics, and humility, ensuring that education is paired with strong moral values.
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