Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Friday sounded a warning over what he termed an emerging pattern of “white-collar terrorism”, arguing that individuals with advanced education and professional standing are being drawn into violent and anti-national activities that pose complex challenges for law-enforcement and national security agencies. Speaking at a public event in Udaipur, he said the phenomenon required closer scrutiny because it exploited social trust and technical expertise in ways traditional counter-terror frameworks were not designed to detect.Rajnath cited an alleged “white-collar terror network” in connection with a car blast reported in Delhi on November 10, which authorities have said is under investigation. He claimed the case illustrated how professional credentials could be misused for extremist ends, adding that some of those accused were trained doctors. “Those who write ‘Rx’ on prescriptions now have RDX in their hands,” he said, in remarks that drew attention for their stark imagery and for the broader questions they raised about radicalisation pathways among the educated middle class.
The defence minister was addressing a gathering marking the 104th foundation day of Bhupal Nobles' University, a setting he used to frame his comments as a call for vigilance within educational institutions. He argued that universities and professional bodies must do more to reinforce civic responsibility and ethical training alongside technical instruction, warning that knowledge without values could be weaponised.
Security officials have long acknowledged that extremist recruitment has diversified beyond traditional socio-economic profiles, with online networks and encrypted communications enabling outreach to skilled professionals. Analysts say such cases complicate detection because suspects often lack the conventional markers that trigger early intervention. Rajnath’s remarks echoed this assessment, suggesting that counter-terror agencies need to adapt to an evolving threat landscape in which ideological indoctrination can occur within professional and academic circles.
While details of the Delhi incident remain contested, investigators have indicated that multiple agencies are examining forensic evidence and digital trails to establish responsibility and motive. Officials have cautioned against drawing conclusions before the probe is complete, underscoring the need to separate verified findings from political rhetoric. Opposition figures and civil-rights advocates have urged restraint in public characterisations, arguing that sweeping labels risk stigmatising entire professions and could prejudice due process.
Rajnath acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue but maintained that his intention was to highlight a security trend rather than target any community. He said terrorism had “no uniform or background” and could take root wherever grievances and extremist ideologies intersected with opportunity. The defence minister also stressed that national security policy must balance firmness with fairness, ensuring that investigations are evidence-driven and legally sound.
Experts in counter-radicalisation note that professional radicals are not a new phenomenon globally, but the scale and speed of modern networks have amplified the risk. They point to the role of social media, fringe online forums and transnational linkages in spreading propaganda tailored to educated audiences. Such messaging often frames violence as a form of intellectual or moral resistance, a narrative that can resonate with individuals disillusioned by politics or social change.
Within government, Rajnath’s comments are likely to feed into ongoing discussions about strengthening oversight of sensitive materials, enhancing background checks for positions with access to hazardous substances, and expanding deradicalisation programmes in campuses and workplaces. Officials say these measures are being considered alongside broader reforms to cyber monitoring and inter-agency coordination.