Pahalgam
The terrorist attack in Pahalgam has again raised tensions between India and Pakistan.
The 22 April terrorist attack in Pahalgam in Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists, has once again brought the strained India-Pakistan relationship into sharp focus. The nature of the attack, where victims were reportedly selected based on their religion, has sent shockwaves across India and the global community. This horrific incident not only exposes the persisting threat of terrorism in the region but also presents a serious challenge to diplomatic stability in South Asia.
This attack, however, is not an isolated event. Over the last two decades, India has faced numerous terrorist incidents allegedly involving Pakistan-based groups, including the 2001 Parliament attack, the 2008 Mumbai attacks, the 2016 Uri attack, and the 2019 Pulwama attack. India’s retaliatory measures, such as the "surgical strike" in 2016 and the Balakot airstrikes in 2019, were significant but they reportedly did not bring a long-term shift in the status quo.
There have been strong calls within the country for decisive action against terrorism, with many urging the government to adopt a more aggressive stance to ensure long-term national security. Analysts and editorials alike argue that only by directly targeting the roots of terrorism can lasting peace be achieved.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reportedly giving a "free hand" to the armed forces to deal with terrorism underlines government's firm resolve to retaliate against those responsible. This stance is further amplified by the government's decision to halt the Indus Waters Treaty between the two countries.
From a domestic security standpoint, the attack has raised questions about the effectiveness of intelligence and surveillance mechanisms. Despite recent government statements suggesting a decline in local recruitment by terrorist groups, the involvement of 15 local collaborators in the Pahalgam incident indicates that underground networks may still be active.
Pakistan, for its part, faces mounting challenges. A statement by its own defence minister, admitting to the country’s involvement in terrorism over the last three decades, has sparked internal criticism. Many in Pakistan’s civil society and media have expressed disapproval of policies that have undermined economic development and international credibility. Yet, a consistent and transparent effort to dismantle terror infrastructure has not been evident, deepening mistrust across the border.
Moving forward, a balanced approach requires India to maintain vigil and strengthen its security apparatus. This includes strengthening border security, improving intelligence gathering, and ensuring swift action by security forces. Simultaneously, diplomatic channels, however strained, must remain open. While direct dialogue may seem challenging in the current climate, exploring indirect avenues for communication and de-escalation may prove vital in preventing further conflict.
