Ajit Doval: India’s ‘Desi James Bond’ Who Disguised as a Beggar in Pakistan for a Nuclear Mission

National News: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval is often called India’s “James Bond” and “Supercop.” Known for his unconventional methods and fearless approach, Doval has carried out several high-risk operations that earned him legendary status in India’s intelligence community. Among his many daring assignments, one mission in Pakistan during the 1980s stands out as the most dangerous and impactful.

Rise in the Intelligence World

Doval began his career with the Intelligence Bureau and quickly made a name for himself through missions such as the Sikkim operation. His ability to think differently and act boldly led him to some of India’s most sensitive intelligence tasks. The mission in Pakistan, however, pushed him into the spotlight as a master strategist willing to risk everything for national security.

Living as a Beggar in Pakistan

According to D. Devadatta’s book “Ajit Doval—On a Mission,” Pakistan accelerated its efforts to develop nuclear weapons after India’s first nuclear test in 1974. With help from China and North Korea, Pakistan’s program at Kahuta became a matter of serious concern for India. To uncover its secrets, Ajit Doval was entrusted with a mission that would take him deep inside enemy territory.

Disguised as a beggar, Doval lived for months in the streets of Kahuta, where Pakistan’s nuclear research activities were concentrated. While locals gave him alms, Doval’s focus remained on collecting intelligence about the clandestine nuclear program.

Breakthrough at a Barber Shop

One of the most remarkable episodes occurred at a local barber shop frequented by scientists from the Khan Research Center. Sitting outside, Doval noticed hair scattered on the floor after their haircuts. Realizing its potential value, he collected the strands and secretly sent them back to India.

Tests on the samples revealed traces of uranium and radiation, providing conclusive evidence of Pakistan’s nuclear ambitions. This intelligence breakthrough allowed India to monitor and counter Pakistan’s progress.

Six Years Undercover

It is said that Ajit Doval lived undercover in Pakistan for nearly six years, constantly facing risks to his life. His intelligence gathering not only exposed Pakistan’s nuclear program but also delayed its ability to conduct nuclear tests by almost 15 years.

Doval’s Most Daring Mission

The Kahuta mission is widely regarded as the most dangerous assignment of Ajit Doval’s career. It showcased not only his courage but also the capability of Indian intelligence agencies to carry out highly sophisticated and risky operations. By blending in as a beggar and turning ordinary details—like hair on a barber’s floor—into groundbreaking intelligence, Doval proved why he is hailed as India’s “Desi James Bond.”