New Delhi: In the wake of the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead, including a Nepalese national, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan met with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday to discuss military preparedness and response strategies.
The meeting, held at Rajnath Singh’s residence, focused on the Indian military’s response following the April 22 terror attack at Baisaran meadow near the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The assault, which occurred around 2 PM, has been described as one of the deadliest since the Pulwama attack in 2019, which killed 40 CRPF personnel.
Teams from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), led by senior officials including an IG, DIG, and SP, have been stationed at the attack site since April 23. Investigators are questioning eyewitnesses and combing through the area for forensic evidence to trace those responsible.
The Indian Army has stepped up operations along the Line of Control (LoC) and in the Kashmir Valley, conducting intensified search missions to track and eliminate terrorist elements believed to be behind the attack. The military remains on high alert as tensions with Pakistan continue to rise.
The Pahalgam massacre has ignited widespread anger across the country. Protests have erupted in several cities, with citizens demanding strong action against Pakistan and decisive steps to prevent further cross-border terrorism.
On April 23, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) convened to review the situation. The CCS, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was briefed on the cross-border linkages of the Pahalgam attack. Members condemned the assault in the strongest terms, offered condolences to the victims’ families, and praised the resilience of the people of Jammu and Kashmir amid growing stability and economic progress.
As part of its response, India has announced the withdrawal of its Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. These posts, along with five support staff, will be annulled. Pakistan is expected to mirror the decision by withdrawing its own military attaches from New Delhi.
The diplomatic mission strength on both sides will be reduced from 55 to 30 personnel by May 1, 2025, further underlining the deteriorating ties between the two countries.
