Following online attacks and trolling, politicians and diplomats have rallied in support of Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Misri faced criticism after issuing a statement on Saturday regarding Pakistani violations of a newly established ceasefire agreement.
The online attacks began after Misri reported that Pakistan had violated the ceasefire agreement just hours after it was implemented, adding that Indian armed forces were responding to these violations and would continue to respond firmly to further violations; however, India would not back out of the ceasefire deal. Subsequently, numerous X users criticized Misri for not adopting a more assertive stance regarding Pakistan's ceasefire violations. Some users dug up old posts and shared private photos and contact details of his family. His daughter, Didon Misri, who is based in London and works at a global law firm, was also targeted for providing legal support to Rohingya refugees. As a result, Misri locked his X account, which he had maintained since before becoming Foreign Secretary.
The IAS Association has voiced its support for Misri and his family, denouncing the unwarranted personal attacks on civil servants who perform their duties with integrity. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the dignity of public service. The IPS Association also condemned the personal attacks against Misri.
Several political figures have also spoken out in support of Misri. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi defended Misri, emphasizing that civil servants should not be held accountable for political decisions. He described Misri as a decent, honest, and hardworking diplomat who tirelessly serves the nation. Owaisi stressed that civil servants work under the executive branch and should not be blamed for decisions made by the executive or political leadership. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the abusive language used against Misri and his family, stating that the government has a responsibility to protect the honor and respect of its officers. He added that such attacks could demoralize honest officers dedicated to the country. Congress leader Sachin Pilot also condemned the social media trolling directed at Misri's family.
Former Foreign Secretary Nirupama Menon Rao expressed her support for Misri, calling the trolling utterly shameful. She emphasized that Misri has served India with professionalism and resolve and that there is no justification for his vilification. Rao also condemned the doxxing of Misri's daughter and the abuse of his loved ones, calling for an end to the toxic hate and urging people to stand united behind diplomats.
Entrepreneur Sanjeev Bikhchandani recounted his early career with Misri, praising him as a "super guy doing a fine job" who is being unfairly targeted. Political commentator Salman Anees Soz stated that no amount of trolling could diminish Misri's service to the country. Veteran journalist Vir Sanghvi described the abusers as "human garbage" and lauded Misri as an outstanding diplomat. Journalist Maya Mirchandani noted that Misri was simply conveying a decision made by the political leadership.
Vikram Misri, a 1989 Indian Foreign Service officer, assumed the role of Foreign Secretary in July 2024. He gained prominence for leading media briefings, along with Colonel Sofia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, regarding Operation Sindoor. Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
