The Indian Army has intensified operations to eliminate the terrorists behind the Pahalgam attack, amid a high alert. Meanwhile, nationwide protests have broken out, urging stronger action against Pakistan over its alleged support for terrorism.
On April 27, AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi strongly criticized Pakistan over the Pahalgam terror attack, asserting that a nation cannot claim to be a nuclear power while killing innocent civilians without facing consequences. Speaking at a public gathering in Parbhani, Maharashtra, Owaisi condemned the targeting of people based on religion and compared Pakistan’s actions to those of ISIS. He warned that no Indian government would remain silent if its citizens are attacked on home soil under the guise of faith.
The April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, targeted tourists, resulting in the deaths of 26 people, including a Nepalese national. The attack occurred near Baisaran Meadow, a popular tourist spot, and is considered one of the deadliest in the region since the 2019 Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF jawans. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been investigating the incident since April 23, with senior officers leading efforts to collect evidence and interview eyewitnesses. Meanwhile, the Indian Army has launched several operations to neutralize the terrorists involved, and nationwide protests have erupted, calling for tougher actions against Pakistan for its alleged support of terrorism.
Following the Pahalgam attack, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) held a meeting on April 23, where members were briefed in detail about the incident. The committee condemned the attack, offered condolences to the victims’ families, and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. During the meeting, the CCS highlighted the cross-border links to the attack, noting it occurred after the successful completion of elections in the Union Territory and amid its ongoing economic progress. In response, India has taken strong diplomatic action by withdrawing its Defence, Navy, and Air Advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad, along with five support staff members. Additionally, the Indian High Commission’s staff will be reduced from 55 to 30 personnel, with the changes set to take effect by May 1, 2025.