Rajnath Singh warns of alarming 'white-collar terrorism' trend in India

Rajnath Singh has highlighted an alarming new trend of 'white-collar terrorism,' pointing to the involvement of highly educated individuals, like doctors, in recent terror activities

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Friday, observed that an alarming trend of white-collar terrorism is emerging in the country, wherein highly educated people are engaging in anti-social and anti-national activities. 

Speaking at the 104th foundation day event of Bhupal Nobles' University in Udaipur, he pointed at the November 10 car bomb blast near the Red Fort in Delhi, where the perpetrators were found to be doctors.

“The perpetrators of the (Delhi) bomb blast were doctors  those who write 'Rx' on prescriptions, yet have RDX in their hands. This highlights the need for knowledge to be accompanied by values and character,” Singh said.

The purpose of education is not only professional success but also the development of morality, ethics and human character, he said. "Any education system that does not impart humility, character, and moral values ​​along with knowledge cannot be considered successful."

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The explosives-laden i20 car that detonated outside the Red Fort on November 10, killing 15 people, was driven by Dr Umar-un-Nabi. The probe unravelled a 'white-collar' terror module, leading to the arrests of three doctors among others. 

Singh also said that many defence startups are doing remarkable work in the country and expressed confidence that in the 15-20 years, India will become fully self-reliant in weapons.

Pointing out that artificial intelligence, machine learning and other technologies are transforming people's lives and work, Singh said these must be used positively to drive India's development.

India is the world's fourth-largest economy, which is on track to become the third-largest by 2030, Singh said, noting that universities have a big role to play in this journey.