Misuse of welfare schemes, growing radicalisation, and rising ‘white-collar terrorism’ demand a bold policy rethink
The recent Delhi terror incident has shaken the nation — not because of the blast that occurred, but because of the devastation that was prevented. Nearly 3,000 kilograms of explosives were seized by Indian security agencies, while only about 70 kilograms actually detonated. Had the entire stock exploded, the capital could have faced unimaginable destruction.
Yet, for once, the narrative is different. The terrorists failed. Their entire network collapsed even before they could execute their plans. The credit goes to India’s intelligence community, police, and the firm political leadership that has ensured a proactive approach to terrorism.
A New Era of National Security
Gone are the days when India reacted after being hit. During the Mumbai 26/11 attacks or the early 2000s blasts in Kashmir, terrorists had the upper hand — striking first and vanishing before the system could respond. Today, under decisive leadership, India acts in advance. The Delhi operation demonstrates how coordinated intelligence, swift enforcement, and political resolve can dismantle even the most sophisticated terror plots.
The Silent Threat: Misuse of Welfare
While we celebrate the success of our security forces, a deeper issue emerges. Several welfare schemes and special provisions, intended to uplift the backwards and minority communities, have been misused by radical elements. What began as noble social upliftment is being twisted into channels for recruitment, propaganda, and funding extremist activities.
This misuse is a danger not only to national security but also to the communities these policies were meant to protect. Extremists act in the name of religion, creating suspicion and backlash that harms innocent citizens. Terror has no religion, yet misuse of welfare by a few threatens the many.
White-Collar Terrorism: The Invisible Enemy
Modern terrorism is not confined to streets or explosives. It operates in offices, fake NGOs, online propaganda, and foreign-funded networks. This “white-collar terrorism” silently poisons society, recruits youth, and spreads extremist ideology under the guise of charity or activism.
Countering this requires stronger financial audits, cyber surveillance, and strict monitoring of welfare programmes. Every rupee must be accounted for, ensuring development, not division.
Equality, Not Appeasement
A secular and democratic Bharat must enforce equality for all citizens. Policies intended to uplift must not be exploited for anti-national purposes. Selective benefits without accountability create resentment, polarisation, and enable radical networks.
True fairness means supporting every citizen while denying terrorists or extremists any space to misuse the system. This is not discrimination; it is the protection of the nation and its people.
Unity Is Our Greatest Strength
This incident is a stark reminder: our strength lies in unity. Pointing fingers or politicising tragedies weakens the nation. Instead, we must reaffirm our identity — not as Hindus, Muslims, or Sikhs, but as Bharatiyas. Loyalty must be to the tricolour and the Constitution, not to ideologies that divide.
Vigilance Within and Without
The Delhi terror plot was foiled, but the battle continues. Bharat must ensure that no policy, law, or programme is ever exploited against national interest. Security measures are only as strong as the integrity of our system.
India has proven it can prevent disaster, but vigilance, policy reform, and equality before the law are essential to safeguard its future. We may forgive mistakes, but we will never tolerate betrayal of the nation.
