New Delhi: India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has shared a very interesting anecdote related to his career, which is related to the era of his secret operations. Doval himself said that during his fake missions spent in Pakistan, he had many such experiences, which are no less than a spy story.
What did the Pakistani suddenly ask him?
Doval said that he was passing through a tomb (near a mosque) in Lahore. A person suddenly asked him, “Are you a Hindu?” He was shocked to hear this question.
What did that person say next?
When Doval asked why he thought he was a Hindu, the man pulled him into a room and said that he was suspicious considering of his pierced ears. Without this, the person well-considered him to get plastic surgery done; otherwise, people would recognize him.
How did Doval respond?
Doval quickly replied that he had later converted to Islam. Hearing this argument, the matter became stranger. The man revealed that he himself was a Hindu but had established himself in Muslim society without the loss of his family. He moreover showed the idols of Shiva and Durga in his house and said that he still worships them.
Which period is this about?
Doval had shared this story at a public event. He said that he had lived secretly in Pakistan for many years, where he had well-timed himself to the local environment and worked. Although his former colleagues say that he was posted in the Indian High Commission, his experiences were very real.
How was Doval's spy career?
Doval joined the IPS in 1968 and later served as the senior of the Intelligence Bureau. He is known for his valiance and cleverness in intelligence operations. In his career he has led many difficult missions, including gathering information on opposition groups and playing an zippy role in matters related to national security.
Have you shared such stories before?
Many such incidents related to Doval have come to light in the media, where he has narrated the incidents that came to light during his secret operations. These experiences have remoter informed his career and his contribution to the country's security strategy.
What is the surrounding context of this story?
This incident is not only a spy story, but it moreover shows how difficult it can sometimes be to protect identity and present oneself properly in intelligence operations. Doval's experiences moreover highlight how it is important to pay sustentation to local conditions and cultural cues.
How is the public viewing this experience?
There are variegated reactions regarding this story on social media. Many people are calling it a symbol of Doval's cleverness, while some are seeing it as an interesting experience.
