'India is too familiar with mindless brutality': Foreign Secy Misri links Oct 7 to cross-border terror, cites India’s scars

On January 28, 2026, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri spoke at a special event held in New Delhi. The event was held to remember and honor the victims of the Holocaust, specifically those who suffered at Auschwitz in 1945. This day is called the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, and it is observed worldwide to remember the terrible events that took place during World War II.

Remembrance days like this are very important. They help us keep alive the memory of those who suffered and remind us of the dangers of hatred, violence, and discrimination. By thinking about the past, people hope to prevent such terrible events from happening again in the future.

During his speech, Vikram Misri talked about the importance of remembering past tragedies. He also discussed recent events, especially a recent attack on Israel by Hamas. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large attack that resulted in many deaths and injuries. Misri condemned this attack and explained that it was a form of cross-border terrorism. Cross-border terrorism is when groups or individuals carry out violent acts across countries, often trying to create chaos or advance political goals.

Misri emphasized that violence like this is dangerous and should be strongly condemned. He noted that India, like many other countries, has experienced violence and hatred in its own history. India has faced many challenges, but it has always believed that understanding and empathy are important. He spoke about the need to be kind and considerate towards others, especially those who are different from us.

India’s government was very clear in its response to the attack on Israel. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India strongly condemns the violence. He also expressed support for Israel and its right to defend itself. Many countries around the world share similar views, calling for peace and stability in the region.

Vikram Misri also warned about the dangers of prejudice and discrimination. Prejudice is unfair treatment or negative feelings towards certain groups of people, often based on things like religion or nationality. Discrimination is acting unfairly towards those groups. He pointed out that staying silent in the face of violence and discrimination makes things worse. Silence can be seen as allowing evil to continue, which is why it’s important to speak out and stand up for what is right.

He supported efforts to achieve peace in areas affected by conflict, such as Gaza. The Gaza Peace Plan, led by the United States, is one of the ways countries are trying to bring calm and stability to that region. Many nations believe peace can only be achieved if all sides work together and show patience and understanding.

This event was a reminder of the importance of remembering the past and working towards peace. India’s official stance is clear: the country strongly condemns terrorism and all forms of violence. At the same time, India supports efforts to keep peace and stability, especially in areas like West Asia, where conflicts can cause suffering for many people.

The event also highlighted some important facts. The Holocaust Remembrance Day is observed every year on January 27. In 1945, the Auschwitz concentration camp, where many innocent people were killed, was liberated by the Allied forces. The recent Hamas attack on Israel resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 Israeli nationals. These tragic numbers remind us how serious violence can be and why it is necessary to remember these events.

India’s official position is to oppose terrorism in all its forms. The country believes in peace and stability and supports regional efforts like the Gaza Peace Plan. By doing so, India hopes to contribute to a safer and more understanding world.

In conclusion, the event in New Delhi served as an important reminder. It reinforced the need to remember past tragedies like the Holocaust, condemn acts of violence and terrorism, and work towards peace and mutual understanding among nations. Remembering history helps us build a better future, where hatred and violence are replaced with kindness and respect for all people.