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Modi Takes Fresh Dig At Opposition Critics With 'Dimagi Naxals' Remark

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday doubled down on his controversial 'Dimagi Naxals' terminology, suggesting his Independence Day address had delivered a sharp message to political opponents.

LSN India · 5 September 2026

Speaking at a Delhi college event, PM Modi revisited his August 15 Independence Day address from the Red Fort, where he had employed the term 'Dimagi Naxals' to describe critics of government policies. The Prime Minister indicated that the phrase was intended as a pointed response to his political opposition.

Modi characterised his rhetorical approach as administering 'homoeopathic pills' to those who persistently criticise the government, suggesting that his targeted language was calibrated to have a measured impact on detractors. The metaphorical reference underscored his strategy of using sharp terminology to counter what he views as ideologically driven opposition.

The 'Dimagi Naxals' terminology, introduced during the Independence Day address, has drawn considerable attention from opposition parties and civil society observers. The phrase, which translates to 'intellectual Naxals,' has been interpreted by critics as a broad brush to discredit ideological opponents, while government supporters contend it specifically targets those they claim use anti-national rhetoric.

Modi's reiteration of the term at the college event signals the government's intent to maintain its aggressive messaging against what it perceives as a coordinated opposition campaign. The Prime Minister's comments reflect the intensifying political rhetoric ahead of upcoming electoral contests across India's states and regions.