PM Modi leads a high-level meeting after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26
In the wake of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a high-level security meeting at his Delhi residence. The meeting, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, focused on reviewing the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir and formulating a strategic response to the incident.
The attack, carried out by five armed militants in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, targeted tourists, resulting in the deaths of 25 visitors and a local pony operator. The assailants, reportedly affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility, citing opposition to the Indian government’s policies in Kashmir. However, TRF later retracted their claim, attributing it to a communications breach.
The incident has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, with India accusing Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism. In response, India has taken several diplomatic measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, expelling Pakistani diplomats, and closing borders. Pakistan has denied involvement and retaliated by suspending the Simla Agreement, restricting trade, and closing its airspace to Indian airlines.
The aftermath of the attack has seen a significant crackdown in Kashmir, with Indian security forces detaining nearly 2,000 individuals and demolishing homes of suspected militants. These actions have drawn criticism from local leaders and human rights groups, who argue that such measures amount to collective punishment.
The attack has also severely impacted the tourism industry in Kashmir, with authorities temporarily closing 48 of the 87 government-authorized tourist resorts in the region. Over a million cancellations have been reported, and many tourists have fled the area, fearing further violence.
At the United Nations, India highlighted the Pahalgam attack, emphasizing its status as a victim of cross-border terrorism. India also pointed to statements from Pakistan’s Defence Minister as evidence of Pakistan’s involvement in training and funding terrorists.
The Pahalgam terror attack has not only strained India-Pakistan relations but also raised concerns about the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. As the Indian government intensifies its counter-terrorism efforts, the region remains on high alert, with the hope of preventing further tragedies.
