On Monday, the National Commission for Women expressed strong disapproval of the “unacceptable online harassment” directed at Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and his family following his announcement regarding a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
Vijaya Rahatkar, the commission's Chairperson, criticized the sharing of Misri’s daughter’s personal information as “highly irresponsible and a significant violation of privacy that jeopardizes her safety.”
Since May 7, Misri, alongside Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, has been providing updates on the Indian military's operations, known as Operation Sindoor, targeting alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
On Saturday, Misri announced that both nations had agreed to cease hostilities at 5 PM, but he later stated that Pakistan had breached the ceasefire, which sparked outrage among some Indians who felt the conflict should persist.
Numerous social media users directed abusive comments at Misri, with some targeting his daughter for her involvement in providing legal assistance to Rohingya refugees.
Personal contact information for Misri and his family members was also disclosed by certain users.
Rahatkar emphasized that “such personal attacks on the family of a senior civil servant like Shri Misri are not only unacceptable but also morally indefensible.”
She urged everyone to practice decency, civility, and restraint in their interactions.
Politicians have come forward to defend Misri, highlighting that he was merely relaying a decision made by the government.
Asaduddin Owaisi, chief of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, praised Misri as an “honest, hardworking diplomat,” asserting that civil servants should not be blamed for the decisions of the political leadership.
Congress leader Salman Anees Soz remarked that Misri had “brought pride to India,” stating, “No amount of trolling can diminish his service to the country. If you can’t express gratitude, then learn to remain silent.”
The military actions on May 7 were a response to the Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in 26 fatalities on April 22.
In retaliation, the Pakistani military has been shelling Indian villages along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the deaths of over 20 civilians in the ensuing conflict.