P. Chidambaram Proud to Be 'Intellectual Naxal' Amid Modi's Remarks Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reference to “intellectual naxals” during his Independence Day address sparked a sharp political reaction, with senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram publicly declaring pride in being labeled as such. The remark, which Modi described as a warning against ideological subversion, targeted individuals opposing the Indian Constitution and supporting separatist movements, according to Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. Rijiju clarified that Modi’s comments were not directed at legitimate opposition leaders but rather at those advocating for separatism and undermining the nation’s constitutional framework. Chidambaram, a veteran Congress leader, responded to Modi’s remarks by expressing pride in being an “intellectual naxal,” a term Modi used to describe individuals who seek to destabilize the country’s institutions. The Prime Minister’s statement, delivered during the 75th Independence Day celebrations, emphasized the need to identify and neutralize such groups, which he claimed had infiltrated the nation’s systems. Modi also highlighted that while armed naxals had been eradicated, their ideological counterparts had emerged, attempting to influence society through subversive means. Rijiju’s clarification drew criticism from Congress leaders, who accused the government of misrepresenting the intent of Modi’s remarks. Congress spokesperson Pavan Khaira mocked Rijiju’s assertion, sarcastically suggesting that the minister first verify the facts before making such claims. Khaira’s retort underscored the political tension surrounding Modi’s rhetoric, which many in the opposition viewed as an attempt to delegitimize dissenting voices.#kiren_rijiju #narendra_moddi #p_chidambaram #pavan_khaira #amit_mallavy
