UPDATE-Pahalgam Terror Attack: A National Tragedy

 

Prime Minister's Strong Response

In his first public address after the Pahalgam terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to pursue the terrorists and their sponsors relentlessly, promising justice for the victims. Speaking in Madhubani, Bihar, he condemned the attack as an assault on India's very essence and underscored the nation's unity against terrorism. Modi announced significant retaliatory measures, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the downgrading of diplomatic ties with Pakistan, which is accused of facilitating the attackers. This tragic incident, carried out by the Resistance Front—an affiliate of Lashkar-e-Taiba—claimed 26 lives, predominantly tourists, sparking widespread mourning and international condemnation.

Army Chief's Visit to Jammu and Kashmir

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi is scheduled to visit Srinagar to assess the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir following the attack. Senior Army Commanders will provide briefings on various security aspects. It remains uncertain whether the Army chief will travel to Pahalgam during his visit.

Escalating Tensions with Pakistan

In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, Pakistan has heightened tensions with India, threatening to suspend the Simla Agreement and other bilateral agreements. The country has closed its airspace to Indian airlines, halted trade, and shut down the Wagah border post. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar condemned India's suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, stating that any diversion of water would be viewed as an act of war. These actions reflect a tit-for-tat response to India's punitive measures, which include expelling Pakistani military attachés and closing the Attari land transit post.

Identification of Suspects

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have identified three suspects in the attack: Pakistani nationals Hashim Musa and Ali Bhai (alias Talha), and local resident Adil Hussain Thoker from Anantnag district. Musa and Ali have reportedly been active in the Valley for nearly two years, while Thoker, who visited Pakistan in 2018, is believed to have acted as their guide. Eyewitness accounts have led to sketches of the attackers, and authorities are exploring the possibility of a fourth accomplice. The attackers executed extensive reconnaissance, leveraging the remote Baisaran meadow to evade security forces. Ongoing search operations are taking place in the Pir Panjal range, with the National Investigation Agency expected to take over the investigation.

High-Level Security Meetings

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan convened a high-level meeting with the chiefs of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) to review the security landscape in Jammu and Kashmir. While specific details from the meeting remain undisclosed, it focused on enhancing internal security measures. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to lead a key meeting soon, and the National Investigation Agency is likely to assume control of the probe due to its international implications. Investigators have identified five attackers, including three Pakistani nationals, but none have been apprehended yet.

Global Condemnation

World leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Jordan's King Abdullah II, have expressed solidarity with India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. They condemned the violence and emphasized the need to combat terrorism universally. Leaders from Egypt, Italy, and France also conveyed their condolences, with French President Emmanuel Macron labeling the attack as "barbaric" and unacceptable. This global response highlights a unified stance against terrorism and support for India's commitment to bringing the attackers to justice.

Victims of the Attack

The Pahalgam terror attack resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including gunmen who were reportedly minors equipped with head-mounted cameras. Among the victims was Sushil Nathaniel, a 58-year-old LIC manager from Indore, who was tragically shot in front of his family. The attackers targeted Baisaran, a picturesque tourist destination known as "Mini Switzerland," leaving many injured and traumatized. Survivors recounted the horrifying experience, noting that the attackers even took selfies during the assault.

Heroic Sacrifice

IAF Corporal Tage Hailyang displayed remarkable bravery during the attack, guiding tourists to safety before sacrificing his own life. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu paid tribute to Hailyang, honoring him as a symbol of valor whose selflessness will inspire future generations. The state government has announced financial assistance of ₹50 lakh and a job for a family member, along with plans for a permanent memorial in his village.

Adjustments at the Border

In response to the Pahalgam attack, the Border Security Force (BSF) has scaled back the ceremonial beating retreat at India-Pakistan border points, including Attari, Hussainwala, and Sadki in Punjab. The traditional handshake between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers has been suspended, and border gates remained closed during the event. This decision underscores India's serious concerns about cross-border hostilities and its position that peace and provocation cannot coexist.

Visa Revocation

India has announced the revocation of all visas issued to Pakistani nationals, effective April 27, following the Pahalgam terror attack. Additionally, India has suspended the official X account of the Government of Pakistan. These measures are part of broader punitive actions, including the expulsion of Pakistani military attachés and the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty. Pakistani nationals in India are rushing to return home, and Indian authorities are advising citizens to avoid travel to Pakistan.