Cmdr Abhilash Tomy sheds light on armed forces’ silent service amid waves of misinformation

Retired Indian Navy officer and renowned circumnavigator Abhilash Tomy shed light on the professionalism of the defence personnel who serve the nation in silence, even during trying times.

Commander Tomy put out a thought-provoking social media post on Friday in connection with the escalating tension between India and Pakistan following the terrorist attack on civilians at Pahalgam in Kashmir on April 22.

"There is an eerie silence in the naval WhatsApp groups I am part of. We don’t talk. We don’t speculate. We don’t chatter," Commander Tomy posted on the social media platform, X.

"The retired guys aren’t asking. The serving guys aren’t volunteering info. No one wants anything to be revealed inadvertently- even the fact whether one is on land, sea or in air," he added.

The analogy is clear, and in stark contrast to the war-mongering and wave of misinformation on social media, and allegedly on certain news channels. Commander Tomy's timely remarks reflect the need to respect the invaluable service of the armed forces without speculating and spreading unverified information.

Earlier today, the Ministry of Defence urged "all media channels, digital platforms and individuals" to "refrain from live coverage or real-time reporting of defence operations and movement of security forces".

"All stakeholders are urged to exercise vigilance, sensitivity, and responsibility in coverage, upholding the highest standards in the service of the nation," the ministry said in a press statement.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in his daily briefing that the "Indian armed forces responded proportionately, adequately, and responsibly" to "provocative and escalatory actions taken by Pakistan" targeting Indian cities, civilian infrastructure and military establishments.

Commander Tomy is a Malayali, who famously competed in the challenging Golden Globe Race multiple times. He is the first Indian to sail solo non-stop around the world.