The incident confirmed how the agencies are tracking not just calls but also text messages of the Government’s critics. It also left the NIA with egg on its face as it mistook the result and value of a blood test with Indian currency.

Had the NIA quietly called on Dr Kaul and sought an explanation, it could have avoided the embarrassment, as most people felt that NIA had made a laughing stock of itself by summoning the high profile doctor. The doctor was allowed to leave when explained what the exchange was all about.

On being contacted for his reaction, Kaul said that "NIA has the authority to summon anyone".