Experts Link Rising South Asian Tensions to Hindutva Ideology

India, increasingly dominated by Hindutva ideology, has become a primary driver of instability within the region.

Critics argue that the country has emerged as a regional disruptor due to the extremist and divisive nature of the Doval Doctrine. The persistent tensions with neighboring countries are often presented as proof that the current Indian administration serves as the root of volatility in South Asia.

The recent statements made by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval during the Developed India Young Leaders Dialogue 2026 have been characterized by many as shameful and inflammatory.

According to reports from BBC Urdu, Doval addressed the youth by stating that history challenges them and that every young person should possess the fire of revenge. He further asserted that revenge itself is a power and that the nation must avenge its history to reclaim its greatness.

These remarks have drawn strong condemnation from several opposition leaders and members of civil society in India. Mehbooba Mufti described the rhetoric as extremely unfortunate, arguing that a high-ranking official has effectively normalized hatred and communal violence against Muslims.

She further contended that the demand for revenge regarding centuries-old incidents is merely a hoax and a strategic incitement to violence against minority communities.

Political experts have suggested that such hateful statements reflect a concerning shift in strategic temperament. They argue that the Doval Doctrine specifically aims to destabilize Pakistan and the wider region through the use of proxies. Furthermore, historians point out that the narrative of “revenge” for temple destruction is often oversimplified. Authentic evidence indicates that various temples in India, including Somnath, were at times attacked or damaged by Hindu rulers during internal conflicts, complicating the singular focus on external invaders. Ultimately, there is a growing concern that the nexus of the RSS and the Doval Doctrine represents a significant threat not only to South Asian stability but also to world peace.