In the wake of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has empowered the Indian armed forces with complete autonomy to determine the mode, targets, and timing of their response.
High-Level Security Meeting
On April 29, 2025, PM Modi convened a high-level security meeting in New Delhi, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. During the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasized the nation’s resolve to combat terrorism and expressed full confidence in the professional capabilities of the armed forces.
Details of the Pahalgam Attack
The attack occurred on April 22, 2025, in the Pahalgam area of Kashmir, where assailants targeted Hindu tourists, resulting in 26 fatalities and multiple injuries. The attackers, identified as members of the militant group Kashmir Resistance, are believed to have links with Pakistan-based organizations.
Government’s Response
In response to the attack, the Indian government has taken several decisive measures:
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Operational Freedom: The armed forces have been granted full operational freedom to decide the course of action against the perpetrators.
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Diplomatic Actions: India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, citing breaches of its conditions.
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Security Measures: Over half of the tourist destinations in Kashmir have been closed to the public to tighten security.
International Reactions
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from global leaders, including those from the US, UK, and China. The incident has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, with both nations taking retaliatory measures.
