In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Indian government's stance has become tougher and more specific than ever. Prime Minister Narendra Modi told a high-level security meeting on Tuesday that the Indian armed forces have been given complete freedom to respond to the attack in terms of the type, timing and target. It was said that how, when and where the response will be will depend entirely on the strategic judgment of the army.
The meeting was attended by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and the three service chiefs. In accordance with government sources, the Prime Minister restated the country's commitment to eradicating terrorism and informed that terrorists and their financiers "wherever they are on earth" will be located and dealt with "unthinkable" punishment. Here, Modi's express mention is evident of Pakistan, which has long been accused of inducing terror in India.
Modi's speech was full of confidence. He said that the Indian army is of the highest professional standard and he has complete faith in them. At the same time, he said that there will be no compromise on the issue of the country's security and sovereignty.
This morning, Home Secretary Govind Mohan also held a high-level meeting, where the chiefs of three central paramilitary forces and top officials of two other important security agencies were present. The meeting discussed the internal security situation of the country and preventive measures.
Immediately after the Pahalgam attack, the central government announced a major decision. It has been decided to immediately suspend the Indus Water Treaty signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, as the Indian government alleges that Pakistan has violated the terms of the treaty. Along with this, a deadline for the departure of Pakistani citizens was also announced.
The cabinet decided that all Pakistani citizens, except those holding long-term visas and diplomatic and official visas, will have to leave India by April 29. To implement this decision, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to the Chief Ministers of all Indian states on April 25 and instructed that no Pakistani can stay in India after the specified deadline. The Home Secretary then held a video conference with the Chief Secretaries of all the states and gave similar instructions.
These steps have made it clear that the Indian government is now ready to adopt an offensive rather than a defensive strategy. From the border areas to the diplomatic arena, a comprehensive strategy is being taken to combat terrorism. This is expected to not only increase the pressure on the militant organizations, but also put more pressure on the Pakistani government in the international arena.
