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Pahalgam Terror Attack
Pahalgam Terror Attack: In a bold and decisive move, the Government of India responded firmly to the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 27 Indian citizens and injured several others. The attack sent shockwaves across the nation and demanded swift action — which came in the form of a high-level Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Let’s take a detailed look at the five major decisions taken by the CCS and what they mean for India going forward.
1. Indus Water Treaty Put on Hold
India has decided to suspend the Indus Water Treaty — a landmark agreement signed with Pakistan in 1960, brokered by the World Bank. Under this treaty, India had agreed to share the waters of the Indus River and its five tributaries. But in the wake of this unprovoked attack, the government has decided to review and put a pause on all talks and projects under this treaty.
This move signals India’s intent to use every diplomatic and strategic tool available — including water diplomacy — to put pressure on Pakistan to crack down on terrorism emanating from its soil.
2. Closure of the Attari Border for Passenger Transit
In a rare move, the Attari-Wagah border — the only land crossing point between India and Pakistan for people and goods — has been closed for passenger movement. This decision underlines the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism and sends a strong diplomatic message.
While humanitarian concerns are being considered for stranded individuals, the broader objective is to choke channels of potential infiltration and economic engagement until accountability is ensured.
3. Trade Links Severed
The CCS has also decided to suspend all trade links with Pakistan. This includes both formal and informal trade routes that were previously used for cross-border exchange. With this, the government intends to cut off economic benefits Pakistan might be gaining from trade with India — effectively tightening the screws financially.
This action also impacts the Punjab and Kashmir border economies, but the center has assured support packages to address short-term disruptions.
4. Tightening Security Grid in Kashmir
Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized a total overhaul of the security infrastructure in Kashmir. A new SOP has been drafted, and additional troops are being deployed in sensitive zones including Pahalgam, Anantnag, and Pulwama. The focus will now be on precision intelligence, real-time surveillance, and better coordination between the army, CRPF, and local police forces.
Further, non-lethal technology and drone-based perimeter monitoring systems are being rapidly introduced in high-risk areas.
5. International Diplomatic Campaign
India has decided to launch a global diplomatic drive to expose Pakistan’s hand in cross-border terrorism. The External Affairs Ministry will brief major world powers, including the US, UK, France, and Gulf nations, with evidence gathered from the Pahalgam attack.
The goal is to build a strong international consensus and isolate Pakistan diplomatically until it cracks down on terrorist outfits operating within its borders.
A Nation Standing United
The mood across India is one of grief, but also of resilience. Citizens from all walks of life have come together to support the government’s tough stance. Political parties, while divided on many fronts, have expressed solidarity on the need for a strong and clear response.
Markets remained largely unaffected, signaling investor confidence in India’s internal security apparatus and geopolitical resolve. However, defense and homeland security stocks saw a sharp uptick — a reflection of market expectations around increased spending in these sectors.
Final Thoughts
The Pahalgam terror attack was a tragic reminder of the challenges India still faces in the fight against terror. But the CCS’s quick and firm response shows a government unafraid to make tough decisions. Whether it’s suspending treaties, cutting off economic ties, or ramping up internal security, this new strategy marks a turning point in India’s counterterror approach.
India stands united, and the message is loud and clear — enough is enough.
Credit: This blog post summarizes and reflects on the original report published by Times of India. All views and developments are reported as per their coverage.