PM Modi on Pahalgam Attack: Forces Have Full Authority to Determine Response Strategy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it clear that India’s armed forces have complete autonomy in deciding how and when to retaliate against the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, most of whom were tourists.
In a high-level security review meeting held on Tuesday, Modi expressed unwavering confidence in the capabilities and professionalism of the Indian military. He reiterated the nation's firm stance against terrorism, stating, “Eliminating terrorism is our unwavering commitment.”
The meeting was attended by top defence officials, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan also participated as India evaluated its possible courses of action in response to the deadly attack.
According to government sources, Modi emphasized that the military is empowered to independently decide on the method, targets, and timing of any counter-operations.
In earlier comments, Modi had condemned the attack and pledged that those behind it—and their backers—would face retribution, with Pakistan specifically named due to its history of supporting cross-border terrorism. “Their punishment will be beyond what they can imagine,” he stated.
This latest development follows a pattern of decisive responses under the Modi administration, including the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes following the Uri and Pulwama attacks, respectively.
In a related move, the Indian government has taken punitive steps against Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Earlier that day, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan led a separate security meeting with senior officials from the paramilitary forces and intelligence agencies, though the details of that meeting remain undisclosed.
