Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri Faces Online Abuse After Ceasefire Announcement
Vikram Misri's Social Media Profile Made Private
Vikram Misri, the Foreign Secretary of India, has opted to make his profile on the social media platform X private due to an influx of abusive messages following his declaration that India and Pakistan had reached an agreement to cease all firing on Saturday.
Since May 7, Misri, alongside Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, has been holding press briefings to provide updates on the Indian military's operations, known as Operation Sindoor, targeting what were described as terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Background of the Military Strikes
These military actions were a response to the Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals on April 22. In retaliation, the Pakistan Army engaged in consistent shelling of Indian villages along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.
On Saturday, Misri announced the agreement to halt all firing at 5 PM. However, shortly thereafter, New Delhi reported that Islamabad had repeatedly breached this agreement.
Social Media Backlash
Following the announcement of the ceasefire, numerous social media users began sharing Misri's previous posts and revealing personal information about him and his family. His daughter also faced abusive comments, particularly regarding her legal assistance to Rohingya refugees.
Support from Political Figures
Asaduddin Owaisi, president of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, expressed his support for Misri, describing him as an 'honest, hardworking diplomat.' He emphasized that civil servants operate under the executive and should not be held accountable for decisions made by political leaders.
Mr Vikram Misri is a decent and an Honest Hard working Diplomat working tirelessly for our Nation.
— Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) May 11, 2025
Our Civil Servants work under the Executive this must be remembered & they shouldn’t be blamed for the decisions taken by The Executive /or any Political leadership running Watan E… https://t.co/yfM3ygfiyt
Congress leader Salman Anees Soz remarked that Misri had brought pride to India, asserting that no amount of trolling could undermine his contributions to the nation. He urged critics to either express gratitude or remain silent.
Condemnation of Online Harassment
Former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid described the harassment directed at Misri as 'very, very sad.' He praised Misri, Colonel Qureshi, and Wing Commander Singh as exemplary representatives of India's resolve and clarity of purpose.
Khurshid noted that while India is committed to safeguarding its rights and sovereignty, it also values diplomatic engagement with the international community.