During the past few years, the government has acted tough against the terror friendly employees, till date more than 82 have been terminated for their involvement in anti-national activities. The government’s action has sent a clear message that anti-nationals within the system won’t be tolerated and they will have to face the axe. The structured process of identifying and removing terror-linked government employees began in 2021 with the constitution of a dedicated panel to scrutinise staff suspected of having links with terrorist organisations. According to the media reports, security agencies have identified more than 120 additional employees suspected of being terror-friendly and currently under surveillance, in 2026, these employees are likely to face action for their alleged subversive and anti-India activities. The media reports claim that instead of proceeding with mass dismissals, the authorities plan to act in a calibrated and phased manner and action will not be taken in one go. The government showing exit door to the employees who were a part of the system and were helping the terror ecosystem has made it clear that double agents won’t be entertained and there is no place for them in the mainstream setup. Public service is founded on trust, integrity, and allegiance to the nation. Anyone undermining these principles forfeits the moral and legal right to remain within the system. The stern action against the terror ecosystem has gone a long way in curbing terrorism. It has broken the back of terror sympathizers. Such an approach is crucial in a democratic system governed by the rule of law. Acting tough does not mean acting rashly. The phased strategy allows security agencies to strengthen cases, follow due process, and avoid giving room for propaganda that thrives on claims of victimisation. At the same time, it ensures that those found guilty do not escape accountability under the guise of procedural delays or institutional inertia. Going forward, the challenge lies in sustaining this resolve while upholding constitutional values. Transparency, accountability, and legal scrutiny must remain central to the process. A system cleansed of anti-national elements not only strengthens internal security but also restores public confidence in governance. In the long run, rooting out terror from within institutions is as vital as neutralising it on the ground—and the government’s actions so far indicate that this hard truth has finally been acknowledged and acted upon. |