Kapil Sibal has attracted attention after describing himself as a “Dimagi Naxal” during a public address in Kochi on Sunday. The Rajya Sabha MP and senior advocate made the remark while speaking at a programme on “Horse Trade and Democracy” organised in connection with the All India Lawyers Union’s state conference.
Sibal used the term in reference to a phrase previously used by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP while criticising people they accuse of influencing the system and policies through ideological positions. Sibal appeared to turn the label around during his speech, saying that he was a “Dimagi Naxal.”
The former Union minister also spoke strongly about political horse-trading and its impact on democracy. He argued that elected representatives switching political parties can undermine the mandate given by voters.
Sibal has also called for changes to the anti-defection provisions under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution. He has argued that the existing merger provision can create a loophole for groups of legislators to switch political alignments.
His comments have gained attention because they come amid a wider political debate over defections, electoral processes and the functioning of democratic institutions. A separate proposal linked to Sibal’s remarks was backed on September 14 by the Cockroach Janta Party, which called for stronger restrictions on elected representatives who defect from their parties.
Sibal remains an Independent Rajya Sabha member and continues to combine his political role with his work as a senior advocate. His latest remarks are expected to remain part of the ongoing debate over political accountability and the protection of voters’ mandates.