Shimla (Himachal Pradesh): In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan following India’s cross-border military retaliation under “Operation Sindoor,” the Himachal Pradesh government has issued a state-wide alert and tightened security measures in line with advisories from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is scheduled to hold a high-level security review meeting on Friday afternoon, which will include virtual participation from District Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Deputy Commissioners (DCs). The focus of the meeting will be preparedness, supply chain logistics, and response coordination across departments.
The heightened alert comes in the wake of India’s targeted strikes on terrorist camps across the border, launched in retaliation for the killing of Indian tourists in Jammu and Kashmir. The strikes have led to increased security sensitivities across northern India, particularly in states bordering Pakistan.
As a precautionary measure, all schools and colleges in Himachal Pradesh’s Una district—which borders Punjab—have been closed until Friday. Future decisions on educational closures will be made by respective district magistrates depending on evolving security conditions.
Speaking to ANI, Education Minister Rohit Thakur justified the closures, stating, “This entire situation stems from the brutal murder of Indian tourists. In response, our armed forces have delivered justice through Operation Sindoor by destroying identified terrorist camps. This is a proud moment for the entire country.”
Thakur also highlighted the state’s deep connection with the Indian Armed Forces.
“Though Himachal has a population of just 7.5 million, our contribution to the Indian Army is remarkable. From Major Somnath Sharma to numerous other gallant soldiers, our state has always stood at the frontline. Today, we stand united behind our forces and our government,” he added.
While Una remains the most sensitive district, the government is also closely monitoring border-adjacent regions like Chamba. Currently, no school closures have been reported outside Una, but the situation remains fluid.
“Based on intelligence inputs and guidance from the MHA, we shut educational institutions in areas near Punjab. Shimla and other regions of northern and western India remain on alert,” said Thakur.
Officials confirmed that the Chief Minister had already conducted a preparatory review meeting earlier this week, and Friday’s session aims to bolster state-level readiness amid the broader national security challenge.