New Delhi/Srinagar [India]: Following the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which has shaken the nation, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was briefed by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi on the evolving security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, which claimed 28 lives, including that of a naval officer, has been labelled one of the most brutal incidents since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
According to sources, additional troops have been deployed in and around the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, where the attack occurred, as “search and destroy” operations intensify to track down the perpetrators.
“More troops have been inducted near the attack site to carry out search and destroy operations,” said a senior military source.
Fallen Hero: Lt Vinay Narwal
Among the deceased is Lieutenant Vinay Narwal of the Indian Navy, whose sacrifice has drawn condolences and tributes from across the nation. In a solemn message, the Navy stated:
“Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, CNS, and all personnel of the Indian Navy are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Lt Vinay Narwal, who fell to the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family during this moment of unimaginable grief.”
The Indian Navy has joined the broader military and national mourning over the tragedy and reaffirmed its solidarity with all victims of terrorism.
Defence Minister’s Strong Condemnation
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, expressing deep anguish, called the incident a cowardly attack on innocent civilians. Sharing his thoughts on social media, Singh posted:
“Deeply anguished by the news of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam (Jammu & Kashmir). This dastardly attack on innocent civilians is an act of cowardice and highly reprehensible. My thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims and their families.”
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Nationwide Grief, Security Heightened
The incident has prompted an unprecedented security response. Search operations are being conducted jointly by the Indian Army and J&K Police, while political leaders, civil society groups, and the general public continue to express solidarity with the victims through candlelight vigils, shutdowns, and protests.
PM Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have taken personal command of the national response, with the PM returning early from his Saudi Arabia visit to oversee the situation.
In coordination with other ministries, the Civil Aviation Ministry has arranged additional flights from Srinagar to Delhi and Mumbai to evacuate tourists and ensure fare stability.
Meanwhile, the JanaSena Party and several other regional entities have declared days of mourning, organized human chains, and called for a united stand against terrorism.