In a climate thick with tension following the tragic April 22 attack in Pahalgam, where 26 Hindu pilgrims lost their lives, India’s top leadership convened two high-level Cabinet Committee meetings today. These gatherings, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, were aimed at assessing the nation's security posture and formulating a strategic response to the escalating situation with Pakistan.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), comprising key ministers including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, assembled to deliberate on the nation's course of action. This marks the second CCS meeting since the Pahalgam incident, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
In the wake of the attack, India has attributed responsibility to three militants, two of whom are Pakistani nationals. Pakistan, however, has denied any involvement, calling for a neutral investigation. Tensions have further escalated with India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan closing its airspace to Indian airlines. Cross-border exchanges of small arms fire have intensified, violating the existing ceasefire agreement.
Adding to the urgency, Pakistan has claimed to possess "credible intelligence" suggesting that India is planning imminent military action within the next 24 to 36 hours. In response, Prime Minister Modi has granted military chiefs the authority to determine the nation's response, signaling a readiness to act decisively.
International actors, including the United Nations, the United States, and Britain, have expressed concern over the escalating tensions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged both nations to avoid further confrontation, emphasizing the need for restraint. The United States has also called for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan to address the issues at hand.
As the situation remains fluid, the Indian government continues to monitor developments closely, with further high-level meetings anticipated to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape.