In the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack, the nation unanimously demands strong, decisive action. The Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has declared a firm stance against terrorists, their leaders, and their sponsors. The pressing question now is, how will India respond? Will this strike be so significant that it forces terrorists and Pakistan to face severe consequences?
Just hours after the Pahalgam attack, the Modi government issued seven strong signals. Signal 1: Prime Minister Modi cut short his foreign visit. Signal 2: A meeting was convened at the airport right after his return. Signal 3: Home Minister Amit Shah visited Jammu and Kashmir. Signal 4: An emergency CCS meeting was held concerning the terrorist attack. Signal 5: A major announcement by the Defense Minister regarding the Pahalgam incident. Signal 6: PM's conversations with global leaders. Signal 7: Defense Minister Rajnath Singh canceled his Ladakh visit.
Following the Pahalgam attack, PM Modi hinted at significant action, which was followed by a high-level meeting including NSA Ajit Doval and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh with the chiefs of all three armed forces. The meeting, lasting 150 minutes, delved into every possible retaliatory strategy on land, sea, and air. The CCS meeting led by the Defense Minister shared these strategies with the chief of all three services and the NSA. Essentially, the blueprint for a response is nearly ready, pending final orders from Prime Minister Modi.
The CCS meeting occurred on Wednesday evening. Following the session, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri revealed five decisive steps taken against Pakistan. The first step is the closure of the Attari-Wagah border post between India and Pakistan, halting all limited movement. Secondly, India will close its embassy in Pakistan. Third, the Indus Water Treaty will be suspended, significantly impacting Pakistan. Fourth, all Pakistani diplomats in India have been ordered to leave within 48 hours. Fifth, no more visas will be issued for Pakistanis to enter India.
Strong Global Backing for India
Global leaders are openly supporting India, with US President Trump expressing solidarity in India's fight against terrorism. Just hours after the attack, PM Modi and Donald Trump had a discussion via hotline. Russian President Putin has pledged support in the effort to dismantle the terrorist networks. Nations like France, the UK, Australia, Italy, and Saudi Arabia are standing shoulder to shoulder with India.
Action on PoK Could Thwart Pakistan's Plans
Defense experts assert that India now has a viable military option to approach PoK directly. This could lead to a significant directive from the Modi government. There are tactical reasons for a military operation in PoK, where 42 active terror launch pads are positioned near the LoC with an estimated 110-130 terrorists. A major military strike on these launch pads is feasible, with experts believing the time has come to reclaim PoK. A potential conflict with Pakistan remains an avenue to regain PoK, which could heavily disrupt Pakistan's unsanctioned activities.
