India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who recently briefed the media on the India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement, has been subjected to a barrage of personal abuse on social media. The online attacks included offensive remarks aimed at his daughter, sparking widespread condemnation from civil service bodies and political leaders across the spectrum.
Mr. Misri, a 1989 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer and currently serving as the 35th Foreign Secretary of India, faced severe trolling following his announcement regarding military developments between India and Pakistan. In response to the hostile online environment, he was compelled to lock his account on X (formerly Twitter).
Prominent civil service associations came forward in his defense. The IAS Association issued a statement on X, saying, “Unwarranted personal attacks on civil servants performing their duties with integrity are deeply regrettable. We reaffirm our commitment to upholding the dignity of public service.”
Echoing the sentiment, the IPS Association described the attacks as “completely unacceptable,” while the IFS Association strongly condemned the personal targeting and praised Misri’s long-standing dedication to diplomatic service.
The incident also drew criticism from political leaders. Congress leader Sachin Pilot denounced the trolling, calling it “unacceptable to target professional diplomats and civil servants who serve the nation with dedication.” Fellow MP Gaurav Gogoi emphasized that Misri was simply conveying a policy decision made by the government leadership.
AIMIM President and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi reminded the public that civil servants act under the directives of elected officials and should not be individually blamed for political decisions.
V. Srinivas, Secretary of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) and a batchmate of Misri, called him “one of India’s most accomplished diplomats,” highlighting his unwavering commitment to the nation.
Leading bureaucracy-focused media platform Indian Masterminds expressed solidarity with Misri and condemned the unwarranted abuse, stating that the trolling of a dedicated civil servant with an exemplary career is deeply deplorable.
The online backlash comes in the wake of a delicate India-Pakistan ceasefire deal, which has triggered mixed reactions, particularly given ongoing violations along the Line of Control. Despite the controversy, officials reiterated that the announcement was part of a broader diplomatic initiative aimed at de-escalation.
The incident has reignited national conversations about the roles and limits of civil servants, the nature of discourse on social media, and the urgent need to protect public officials from personal attacks during politically sensitive times.
