PM Modi chairs crucial meet, gives forces 'full operational freedom' to avenge Pahalgam terror attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday chaired a meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, NSA Ajit Doval, CDS Anil Chauhan, and the chiefs of three services and granted the forces “full operational freedom” to determine the mode, targets, and timing of India’s response to Pahalgam terror attack.

According to government sources, during the meeting, PM Modi affirmed that it is “our national resolve to deal a crushing blow to terrorism”.

PM Modi expressed full confidence in the professional capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces, stating that they have his complete trust in handling the situation.

The prime minister has granted the forces full operational freedom to determine the mode, targets, and timing of India’s response, underscoring the government’s commitment to a firm and strategic course of action, added the sources.

Prime Modi has vowed to relentlessly pursue the terrorists behind the Pahalgam terror attack, along with their sponsors — a veiled reference to Pakistan, which has long been accused of backing cross-border terrorism in India.

He pledged to go to the “ends of the earth” and inflict punishment “beyond their imagination.”

The April 22 attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which left 26 civilians — mostly tourists — dead, marks one of the deadliest assaults on non-combatants in the region in recent years. The brutality of the strike has triggered nationwide outrage and growing demands for decisive retaliatory action.

PM Modi’s strong statements, in line with his government’s assertive national security policy, have intensified speculation about possible military or diplomatic countermeasures.

In the past, India conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control after the 2016 Uri attack, and carried out the Balakot air strikes following the 2019 Pulwama bombing.

Following the Pahalgam attack, the Indian government has already suspended key bilateral engagements with Pakistan, including placing the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.

Earlier on Tuesday, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan chaired a high-level security meeting with the chiefs of three paramilitary forces and senior officials from two other agencies.

While the agenda was not officially disclosed, the meeting is believed to be part of India’s broader response planning.

With inputs from agencies