The wake of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed the lives of 26 individuals, including two foreign nationals, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has issued a stern warning to those responsible. Speaking at a high-level security meeting in New Delhi, Singh emphasized India's unwavering commitment to combat terrorism and assured that both the perpetrators and their masterminds would face justice. He stated, "We will not only reach out to those who have perpetrated this incident. We will also reach out to those who, sitting behind the scenes, have conspired to commit such nefarious acts on the soil of India."
The attack occurred on April 22, 2025, when militants affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy group of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), opened fire on a group of tourists in the Baisaran Valley. The victims, primarily Indian nationals, were targeted based on their religious identity. The assailants used sophisticated weapons, including M4 carbines and AK-47s, and were reportedly wearing camouflage outfits. The incident has been described as the deadliest terrorist attack in the region since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
In response to the attack, Singh chaired a high-level meeting with senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Intelligence Bureau, and Jammu and Kashmir Police. The meeting focused on assessing the security situation in the region and formulating strategies to prevent future incidents. Singh reiterated the government's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and assured that all necessary measures would be taken to ensure the safety of citizens and tourists alike.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated a probe into the attack and is working closely with local law enforcement agencies to apprehend those responsible. Preliminary investigations have revealed that the attackers had been planning the assault for several weeks and had conducted reconnaissance of the area prior to the attack. Sketches of the suspects have been released, and a nationwide manhunt is underway.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from political leaders across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and assured that the government would take all necessary steps to bring the perpetrators to justice. Opposition leaders also condemned the attack and called for enhanced security measures in the region.
The international community has also expressed solidarity with India. The United Nations, European Union, and several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have condemned the attack and offered their condolences. The incident has once again brought attention to the security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir and the need for sustained efforts to combat terrorism in the region.
As investigations continue, the government remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and visitors. The Defence Minister's firm stance serves as a clear message that India will not tolerate acts of terrorism and will take decisive action against those who threaten its sovereignty and peace.
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