‘Who Are Dimagi Naxals?’ Kiren Rijiju Shares List After PM Modi’s Remark, P Chidambaram Says ‘Proud to Be One’

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju clarified on Sunday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent reference to ideological Maoists as "dimagi Naxals" was not aimed at Opposition leaders, but rather at individuals supporting anti-national agendas. The statement followed PM Modi’s Independence Day address at the Red Fort, where he urged the nation to identify ideological extremists while noting that armed insurgency in the country had been largely curbed.

In a post on X, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju sought to clear up claims that political opponents were being targeted. He explained that the term applies strictly to individuals who support Maoists and reject the Indian Constitution, those who align with separatists and advocate for restoring Article 370, and elements calling to cut off the Chicken's Neck—the strategic 22-kilometer-wide Siliguri Corridor connecting the Northeast to the rest of India. "Didn't Call Opposition Leaders Dimagi Naxals:" Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on PM Modi's Red Fort Remark.

Kiren Rijiju Defends 'Dimagi Naxals' Warning

The political exchange intensified after senior Congress leader and former Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram took to X to respond, stating that he was proud to be a "dimagi Naxal." Dimagi Naxals' More Dangerous Than Those in Forests: BJP MP Brij Lal.

‘Proud to Be One’

The debate stems from the Prime Minister’s national address celebrating the uprooting of armed rebel groups across the country. While praising security forces for defeating violent insurgents, PM Modi warned that ideological sympathizers in public institutions and civic platforms still pose a threat to national stability and progress.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 16, 2026 04:49 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).