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NSA Ajit Doval made the remarks while speaking at the Khusro Foundation’s book launch for author Ahmet T. Kuru’s latest work, ‘Islam, Authoritarianism and Underdevelopment.’
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during a book launch event | Image/CNN-News18
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Sunday called for introspection and dialogue to address societal conflicts, emphasising individuals must not imprison their minds.
Doval made these remarks while speaking at the Khusro Foundation’s book launch for author Ahmet T. Kuru’s latest work, ‘Islam, Authoritarianism and Underdevelopment.’
The NSA stressed the need for introspection within states and societies, saying that loyalty to both religion and state should remain strong. “We must not allow our brains to be imprisoned,” he warned, urging attendees to understand that without self-reflection, societies risk falling behind in a rapidly changing world.
“Introspection by states and societies is very important. The fidelity to religion or state should not be compromised. We should not allow our brains to be imprisoned. If you don’t introspect you lose time and direction. If done too late then you tend to lag,” NSA Doval remarked.
He further noted that the link between state and religion is not unique to Islam and has evolved over time. He mentioned that during the Abbasid era (750–1258 CE), the roles of the state and clergy were clearly defined, unlike in Hinduism, where conflicts were often settled through meditation and dialogue.
Doval expressed concern about societal stagnation, citing the historical reluctance to adopt the printing press as an example. “Those generations who could not think outside the box have stagnated,” he remarked.
While noting that generations unable to think outside the box have become stagnant, he pointed out that the clergy’s fear of the printing press distorting Islam reflects a broader worry about losing control over interpretation.
He concluded his address by pressing on the importance of competition among ideologies. “Any thought or ideology must be competitive,” he declared, challenging the audience to consider how to effectively resolve conflicting mindsets.
His call for engagement and dialogue resonated deeply, leaving the audience pondering the paths forward for both society and religion in contemporary times.