Only those who support Maoists, separatists are ‘dimagi Naxals’: Rijiju after Opposition's criticism
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju clarified that Prime Minister Modi's 'dimagi Naxal' remark refers specifically to individuals supporting Maoists, separatists, and those rejecting the Indian Constitution. The statement follows criticism from Opposition leaders who argued the term was intended to stigmatize political dissent.
Why it matters
The exchange highlights the ongoing tension between the ruling BJP and the Opposition regarding the definition of national security and the boundaries of political discourse in India.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi 's ‘ dimagi Naxal ’ remark in his Independence Day speech sparked a war of words between the Opposition and the BJP , Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Sunday (August 16, 2026) said the PM was not referring to opposition leaders but only to those who support Maoists and separatists and reject the Indian Constitution.
Addressing the nation on the 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Modi on Saturday (August 15, 2026) warned the country about “dimagi Naxals” who have allegedly entrenched themselves in the system and continue to pose a threat to society by manipulating policies. He cautioned that "armed Naxals may have gone, but dimagi (intellectual) Naxals are lurking around" and called for "identifying and isolating" them.
Opposition leaders decried it as an attempt to stigmatise dissent and those who question the government.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in