Modi gives 'complete freedom' to forces for mode, time, target of response to Pahalgam attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a crucial security meeting on Tuesday, declared that India's armed forces have complete operational freedom to decide how, when, and where to respond to the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 people, primarily tourists. This strong directive underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the nation’s security.

During the high-level security meeting, attended by key figures such as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and the chiefs of the three armed services, PM Modi emphasized, "It is our national resolve to deliver a crushing blow to terrorism." This statement reinforces India's determination to take decisive action against those responsible for the attack and to deter future acts of violence.   

The meeting, which also included Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, focused on evaluating India’s response options in the wake of the Pahalgam attack. The government is carefully considering all available strategies to ensure a robust and effective counter-terrorism operation.   

Earlier, in his initial response to the attack, PM Modi pledged to hunt down the terrorists and their supporters, explicitly pointing towards Pakistan's history of sponsoring terrorism against India. He vowed that the punishment for these actions would be "beyond their imagination," signaling a firm and uncompromising stance.