Defence Secretary meets PM Modi as India-Pakistan tensions grow
PM Modi has given the armed forces “complete operational freedom” to decide on the mode, targets and timing of the response to the terror attack
After the Navy and Air Force chiefs, it was the turn of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (May 5) as tensions between India and Pakistan grow over the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
On Sunday, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh met Modi and they are understood to have discussed the security situation. On Saturday, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi apprised the prime minister on the overall situation in the critical sea lanes in the Arabian Sea.
Also read: Pak troops resort to unprovoked firing in 8 forward sectors along LoC in J-K
In a high-level meeting with the top defence brass last Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi gave the armed forces “complete operational freedom” to decide on the mode, targets and timing of the response to the terror attack at Baisaran Valley that claimed 26 lives — including 23 domestic tourists, two foreign tourists, and a local pony ride operator.
Modi’s resolve
Modi has emphasised the national resolve to deal a “crushing blow to terrorism” and warned that those involved in the terror attack will get imaginable punishment.
India has so far taken several diplomatic measures against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and visa services for Pakistani nationals. While all Pakistani nationals have been asked to leave, the diplomatic staff of Pakistan’s missions in India has been downsized.
Pakistan has denied a hand in the terror attack and warned that any move to stop the flow of river waters would be seen as an act of war and threatened to suspend all bilateral pacts, including the Simla Agreement that violates the Line of Control.
Also read: Pakistan political parties briefed by civil, military leadership on Indian situation
Rajnath’s assurance
Several meetings have held by Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, top ministers and security officials since the terror attack. While it is not yet clear what else the government intends to do, Rajnath Singh on Sunday told the nation that “what you desire will certainly happen” under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.
“The physical security of India as a nation has always been ensured by our brave soldiers... As Defence Minister, it is my responsibility to work with my soldiers to ensure the security of the nation’s borders, and it is my duty to give a fitting reply to those who threaten our country,” he said.
(With agency inputs)