In the wake of the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the loss of 26 lives, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi made a significant visit to Srinagar on Friday to evaluate the ongoing security challenges and the counter-terror operations in the region.
During his visit, General Dwivedi received detailed briefings from senior military officials stationed at the 15 Corps Headquarters. Reports indicated that the Army Chief was briefed extensively about operations aimed at tracking down and neutralizing the terrorists responsible for the April 22 attack in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam, an area that was predominantly frequented by civilians and tourists.
In conjunction with discussions surrounding the recent attack, General Dwivedi was updated on ceasefire violations occurring along the Line of Control (LoC). It was reported that Pakistani troops had initiated small arms fire earlier in the day, to which the Indian Army responded promptly and effectively, confirming that there were no casualties from the incident.
Notably, the attack occurred during a sensitive political period, coinciding with U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s visit to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to Saudi Arabia, adding an international layer of complexity to an already tense situation.
In response to the attack, the Indian Army has been placed on heightened alert, initiating multiple search operations across South Kashmir with the objective of neutralizing the terrorists. Additionally, security along the LoC has been intensified due to an increase in ceasefire violations.
The Indian government is taking multifaceted steps to respond to the crisis. Among the measures announced are the closure of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, the suspension of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals, and the declaration of several Pakistani military officials in India as Persona Non Grata, ordering them to leave India within a week. The government is also reciprocating by withdrawing Indian military advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and removing five support staff members from both high commissions.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized India’s firm position by stating, “The posts of Service Advisors stand annulled,” reflecting a strong diplomatic response to the recent escalation of violence.
Simultaneously, large-scale public protests have erupted in various cities across India, with demonstrators voicing their demands for robust retaliatory actions against Pakistan. This public outcry illustrates the heightened emotions and demands for justice against the backdrop of the recent tragedy.
As tensions escalate, the Indian Army is operating under increased vigilance, while political and strategic discussions continue regarding long-term countermeasures in the wake of the attack. The situation remains fluid as the government navigates both military and diplomatic channels in addressing the crisis.
