Indian PM Modi Grants Army Full Authority to Counter Terrorists
Pahalgam Terror Attack Triggers Strong Response
On April 22, 2025, a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killed 26 people, mostly tourists, at Baisaran meadow.
The attack, one of the worst in the region since the 2019 Pulwama strike, targeted civilians, sparking nationwide outrage.
Indian authorities linked the attack to cross-border terrorism, with suspicions pointing toward Pakistan, which Islamabad denied.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his Saudi Arabia visit to address the crisis, vowing to punish the perpetrators.
Modi’s Statement and Context
During a high-level security meeting in New Delhi on April 29, 2025, Modi granted the Indian Armed Forces “complete operational freedom” to decide the mode, targets, and timing of their response.
This came amid escalating tensions with Pakistan, accused of harboring terrorists.
Modi’s remarks followed his emotional address on April 27 during his Mann Ki Baat radio program, where he expressed grief and anger, stating that the attack aimed to derail Kashmir’s peace and tourism revival. He emphasized India’s unity and global support in the fight against terrorism.
Background of the Decision
Since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, the Modi government has promoted Kashmir as a peaceful tourist destination.
The Pahalgam attack shattered this narrative, exposing security gaps. Modi’s decision reflects growing domestic pressure for a military response and his government’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism.
India has already taken punitive measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan and expelling Pakistani nationals. The move also aligns with Modi’s past responses, like the 2019 Balakot airstrike after Pulwama.
Where and How It Was Announced
The announcement came during a closed-door meeting at Modi’s residence in New Delhi, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and military chiefs.
Sources revealed Modi’s directive to the press, emphasizing a decisive retaliation. Earlier, on April 24, Modi had vowed to “pursue terrorists to the ends of the earth” during a rally in Madhubani, Bihar, signaling a strong stance to both domestic and global audiences.
