Diplomatic Measures Against Pakistan
In response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, India has announced a series of punitive diplomatic measures against Pakistan. These actions include the immediate suspension of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, the closure of the Attari border check post, and the downgrading of bilateral relations. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized that the perpetrators will face justice, linking the attack to cross-border terrorism. Additionally, Pakistani nationals will be barred from traveling to India under the SAARC visa exemption plan, and the number of personnel in high commissions in both countries will be reduced. These measures are part of a broader strategy to enhance scrutiny and cooperation with Indian security forces to prevent future incidents.
High-Level Security Meeting
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a high-level meeting to assess the security situation following the terror attack in Pahalgam. He received updates from senior officials, including Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who vowed to track down both the attackers and those in Pakistan who orchestrated the violence. Singh reaffirmed India's commitment to a strong diplomatic response and emphasized the pursuit of justice for the victims. The meeting also addressed enhancing security measures in Jammu and Kashmir, with the US Vice President extending condolences and offering support in the fight against terrorism.
Modi's Return from Saudi Arabia
In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his two-day visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to New Delhi. During discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, both leaders condemned terrorism and recognized it as one of humanity's gravest threats. They stressed that there can be no justification for acts of terror and highlighted the need to prevent access to weapons, including missiles and drones. Their joint statement reaffirmed a commitment to cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts and condemned cross-border terrorism, calling for a unified global response.
Home Minister's Visit to Pahalgam
Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the site of the attack in Pahalgam, where terrorists killed 26 individuals, mostly tourists. He laid wreaths on the coffins of the victims and interacted with their families. Shah chaired a high-level security meeting at the Raj Bhawan, attended by key officials including the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, the chief minister, and top officers from the army and paramilitary forces. He asserted that India will not bend to terrorism and promised that those responsible for the attack will not escape justice.
Commitment to Decisive Action
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pledged that India would take decisive action against both the attackers of the Pahalgam incident and those who orchestrate such violence from behind the scenes. His remarks came during a high-level meeting focused on reviewing the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Singh emphasized the need for a comprehensive and retaliatory strategy, urging enhanced military responses against terrorist groups. He condemned the attack as cowardly and reiterated India’s determination to address terrorism effectively.
All-Party Meeting on the Attack
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the attack on tourists in Pahalgam. This decision follows discussions between Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah with party leaders. Earlier, Prime Minister Modi had chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security to review the security situation in the region.
Chief Minister's Response
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced that he has called an all-party meeting to address the repercussions of the terror attack in Pahalgam. He shared this news via a post on social media.
US Condemnation of the Attack
US Vice President J.D. Vance spoke with Prime Minister Modi to strongly condemn the Pahalgam terror attack. During their conversation, Vance expressed the United States' solidarity with the people of India during this difficult time and conveyed his condolences for the lives lost.
Tracing the Attackers
Indian intelligence agencies have traced the digital footprints of the Pahalgam attackers to safehouses in Muzaffarabad and Karachi, indicating Pakistan's involvement. Preliminary forensic analysis and eyewitness statements revealed that the five terrorists were well-equipped with automatic weapons, including AK rifles, and some wore military-style fatigues.
Investigation into the Attack
An investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack has uncovered that a total of seven terrorists were involved, with four to five believed to be from Pakistan. Eyewitness accounts suggest that at least two local militants may have assisted the attackers, who are suspected to have communicated in Urdu. Authorities have released sketches of three suspects and announced a reward of ₹20 lakh for information leading to their identification.
Claim of Responsibility
The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the attack on tourists in Pahalgam. Known for instilling fear among local populations, TRF has been involved in various violent activities. The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs previously banned TRF under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act in January 2023.
Rise in Foreign Terrorists
Security officials report that at least 65 foreign terrorists from three different outfits are currently active in Jammu and Kashmir. This figure has increased from 59 in early March, with a significant portion belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba, which has been implicated in the Pahalgam attack. In response, the Centre has initiated 26 measures to enhance surveillance and tackle infiltration.
Enhancing Security in Kashmir
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, security agencies are developing a plan to address the security "vacuum" in the Kashmir valley by permanently deploying army and paramilitary forces in the mountains overlooking the tourist destination. This realignment is deemed necessary, especially with the annual Amarnath pilgrimage approaching.
Flaws in Intelligence and Security
Preliminary investigations have revealed significant failures in intelligence and inadequate deployment of forces at the site of the Pahalgam attack. The incident exposed flaws in the Unified Command setup, which was unable to provide actionable intelligence. Authorities are focusing efforts on flushing out remaining terrorists in the vicinity.
Public Response and Shutdown
In response to the attack, Kashmir observed a shutdown, with businesses and schools closing across the region. This marked the first significant closure since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. In Pahalgam and Srinagar, markets were shuttered, and tributes were paid to the victims, with Chief Minister Abdullah announcing compensation for the deceased and injured.
Condemnation from Muslim Organizations
Prominent Muslim organizations condemned the Pahalgam terror attack, asserting that terrorism contradicts the principles of peace in Islam. Leaders from various groups announced plans to deliver strong messages against terrorism during Friday prayers.
Impact on Tourism
Following the attack, Delhi-based travel agencies reported nearly 90% cancellations for trips to Jammu and Kashmir. Families cited safety concerns, and many are seeking refunds or alternative destinations, disrupting the peak tourist season.
Resumption of Helicopter Operations
Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) have resumed operations in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir, following a crash earlier this year that grounded the fleet for safety checks. The ground commander received permission from the Union Defence Ministry to deploy the helicopters based on operational needs.
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