Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday warned of an “alarming trend” of white-collar terrorism in the country, saying highly educated individuals were increasingly being found involved in anti-social and anti-national activities.
Addressing the 104th foundation day celebrations of Bhupal Nobles’ University in Udaipur, Singh referred to the November 10 car bomb blast near the Red Fort in Delhi to underline his concern.
“Today, an alarming trend of white-collar terrorism is emerging in the country. Highly-educated people are working against society and the country,” the Defence Minister said.
Highlighting the disturbing nature of the case, Singh added: “The perpetrators of the (Delhi) 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 explosives-laden i20 car that detonated outside the Red Fort on November 10 killed 15 people and was driven by Dr Umar-un-Nabi. Investigations later uncovered a ‘white-collar’ terror module, leading to the arrest of three doctors, Muzammil Ganai, Adeel Rather and Shaheena Saeed — among others.
Emphasising the broader role of education, Singh said, “The purpose of education is not only professional success but also the development of morality, ethics and human character.”
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The Defence Minister also highlighted progress in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, noting that several defence startups were doing remarkable work.
“I am confident that in the next 15–20 years, India will become fully self-reliant in weapons,” he said.
Referring to emerging technologies, Singh said artificial intelligence, machine learning and other innovations were transforming lives and work patterns, and must be harnessed positively to drive national development.
Pointing to India’s economic trajectory, he said the country, now the world’s fourth-largest economy, is on track to become the third-largest by 2030, adding that universities would play a crucial role in this journey.
Singh also spoke about the importance of personal values, urging people to recognise the fine balance between self-respect and ego.
“While the feeling of self-respect is important, it should never transform into arrogance,” he said.
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