PM Modi Holds High-Level Meeting With Army: Gives Forces Full Operational Freedom Against Terror
The meeting was held at the Prime Minister's residence in New Delhi and was attended by:
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
- National Security Advisor Ajit Doval
- Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan
- Army Chief General Manoj Pande
- Navy Chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar
- Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari
PM Modi’s Message: Crushing Blow to Terrorism
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that he felt deep anguish over the recent attack and expressed condolences to the bereaved families of the soldiers. Official sources quoted him as saying that those responsible for such acts of terrorism would be dealt with stringently.
In an unequivocal statement, PM Modi granted the Indian Armed Forces operational freedom with respect to responding in their own way, at their own time, and to targets of their choosing. The order, therefore, serves to give the military a free hand for independent counter-terror operations, without any bureaucratic hindrance.
What Prompted the Urgency?
The Pahalgam terror ambush on a security convoy ranks as one of the most ferocious in recent memory. The well-planned ambush was carried out in the Anantnag district of South Kashmir, which has seen recent increase in terrorist activity linked to Pakistan-based groups. The incident has again raised concerns about cross-border terrorism and intelligence lapses in very sensitive areas.
India's Strategy Moving Forward
Well-placed sources confirmed that following the meeting, Prime Minister has ordered enhanced surveillance and coordination among various intelligence agencies. Reports indicate that Doval also briefed the committee on the identities of possible handlers behind the attack and their links to Pakistan-backed terror outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Military heads, in response, remarked that surgical operations, air strikes, and even increased patrolling of the border along LOC were among options for counter-strikes.
Political and Public Response
Immediately after the meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh clarified the government's position by saying, “India cannot tolerate terrorism. The forces are empowered to act immediately”. It resonates deeply with popular anger demanding action.
Many opposition groups have extended their support for military action and have started calling for an united national front against terrorism.
Operational Freedom: A Strategic Shift
PM Modi has previously granted the army operational freedom, and this move provides clear direction for yet another bold step. A similar announcement followed the deadly Uri Attack in 2016. A comparable directive came after the Pulwama Attack, where the Prime Minister authorized military action against Pakistan after which attacks were followed up with surgical strikes and Balakot air strikes respectively.
It underlines the emergence of the evolving Indian military doctrine-indicating a proactive defense backed by political will.
Conclusion
This is just another reminder that in the present scenario, it is India that must now act, and act firmly to respond to the insult. Granting full operational freedom to the forces is a watermark in India's security posture. While the nation mourns its brave soldiers, the government has vowed swift, sharp, and decisive justice.
The world now looks at India as it decides on the next steps in retaliation against terrorism as intelligence inputs are being analyzed and military operations are being planned.
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