PM Modi revives ‘dimaagi naxal’ attack, warns Pakistan and targets Opposition over GDP at SRCC

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday used his address at Delhi University's Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) to take aim at his critics on political and economic issues, while also warning Pakistan against supporting terrorism.

Modi was speaking at the college's centenary celebrations, which he attended after travelling to the venue by Delhi Metro.

Modi revives ‘dimaagi naxal’ remark

The Prime Minister referred to his Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, saying his earlier reference to ‘dimaagi naxals’ had prompted those he was targeting to respond.

“Jaise hi maine dimaagi naxal wali homepathy ki goli di, sare dimaagi naxal nikal nikal ke bahar aanay lage aur jo is bimari ko badhawa de rahe hain ab janta unka bhi asli rang dekh rahi hai,” he said.

Modi has used the term ‘dimaagi naxal’ while attacking critics whom he accuses of promoting ideas associated with Naxalism.

PM warns Pakistan over terrorism

Modi also reiterated his warning that India would respond strongly if Pakistan-backed terrorism targeted the country.

“Today, those spreading terrorism are on the back foot. If Pakistan indulges in any misadventure, India's armed forces will enter their territory and strike,” he said.

He added, “Peace has increased from Jammu and Kashmir to the Northeast. The back of Maoist terrorism and Naxalism has been broken. The world that was once concerned about India's policy paralysis is today talking about India's policy dynamism.”

‘7.8 per cent growth’ amid global challenges

The Prime Minister also spoke about India's economic performance and took an indirect swipe at those questioning the latest GDP figures.

He said the country's 7.8 per cent growth had come despite uncertainty caused by the war in West Asia and trade-related challenges.

“And this 7.8 per cent growth has come at a time when the war in West Asia is ongoing and there have been several trade-related challenges. Achieving such growth under these circumstances shows India's strength and potential. I know, and you also know, that those who became infamous for pushing India into the 'Fragile Five' are finding these figures difficult to digest.”

Modi praises SRCC's legacy

Congratulating the institution on completing 100 years, Modi praised its alumni and academic legacy.

“I congratulate you on the centenary celebrations of Shri Ram College of Commerce. When a human being lives for 100 years, they are considered a person of deep knowledge and great experience. When an institution completes 100 years, it becomes an ocean of achievements. SRCC has shaped generations and connected them to a brighter future," he said.

He also described its alumni as the “OGs” and highlighted their achievements across different fields.