New Delhi/Madhubani – April 25, 2025: In the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran area that claimed the lives of at least 26 people on April 22, the Indian government has escalated its response, both in rhetoric and action. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in a high-level communication with Chief Ministers of all states and union territories, directed authorities to identify all Pakistani nationals residing in India and ensure their immediate repatriation, except in cases with legitimate documentation and legal residency status.
This directive comes amid heightened security alerts across the country and strong public sentiment demanding a firm government stance following the attack, which targeted a group of civilians and security personnel in one of Jammu and Kashmir’s prominent tourist zones.
Modi Promises Stern Action Against Terrorism
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a gathering in Bihar’s Madhubani during National Panchayati Raj Day, emphasized that India would not let the Pahalgam attackers go unpunished. Referring directly to the deadly ambush, he stated unequivocally, “India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers — even beyond their imagination.” The statement drew loud applause from the crowd, many of whom held banners in support of the armed forces.
The Prime Minister reiterated that terrorism would never succeed in breaking the spirit of India. Stressing the country’s united resolve, Modi declared, “Terrorism will not go unpunished,” reaffirming the nation’s stand against those who threaten its integrity.
Before his speech, the entire gathering, led by the Prime Minister, observed a minute of silence in honor of the victims. Modi described the attack as an assault on the “soul of India” and condemned the “cowardice” of those responsible. He also expressed gratitude to international allies who extended their solidarity with India during this crisis.
Amit Shah’s Nationwide Directive
In a decisive follow-up to the Prime Minister’s message, Home Minister Amit Shah held discussions with security and intelligence agencies. He instructed state governments to compile data on Pakistani nationals currently residing in their jurisdictions. Shah emphasized the need for “zero tolerance” toward individuals overstaying their visas or residing illegally, especially those suspected of being in touch with extremist elements.
State governments have been asked to initiate thorough background checks and coordinate with central intelligence units to monitor activities of foreign nationals, particularly in sensitive zones such as border states, major urban centers, and locations of strategic significance.
Sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed that Shah had given clear instructions: non-citizens with any dubious affiliations must be deported immediately. Additionally, states have been asked to fast-track the review of long-pending visa extension and asylum requests.
Nationwide Political Reactions
Political leaders across party lines expressed concern and support for the government’s actions. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who shared the stage with the Prime Minister, denounced the attack and assured full cooperation with central agencies to combat the terrorism threat.
Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister for Panchayati Raj, echoed public sentiment, saying the nation’s trust in Modi’s leadership was absolute and that a strong response was expected from the government.
Leaders from other opposition parties, while voicing concern over the attack, also urged the government to ensure that no innocent individual is wrongly targeted during the nationwide identification drive. Civil liberties organizations cautioned against blanket actions that may lead to profiling based on nationality or religion, urging a “careful and evidence-based approach.”
Pahalgam Attack: What Happened?
On April 22, a heavily armed terrorist group ambushed a civilian vehicle convoy traveling from Pahalgam to Baisaran. Eyewitnesses described a sudden burst of gunfire from nearby forest cover, followed by the explosion of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that had been planted along the route.
Among the dead were 16 civilians and 10 security personnel, including two officers of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Several others sustained critical injuries and were airlifted to Srinagar for treatment.
Initial investigations have linked the attack to Pakistan-based terror outfits, including the proscribed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), though official confirmation is pending. Intelligence agencies have intercepted chatter suggesting cross-border handlers had provided logistical support and instructions for the attack.
International Reactions and Diplomatic Fallout
Countries such as the United States, France, Israel, and Australia have extended their condolences to the victims’ families and offered support to India. The United Nations Secretary-General’s office issued a statement condemning the violence and calling for accountability.
Meanwhile, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Pakistani High Commissioner and lodged a formal protest, presenting preliminary evidence of cross-border involvement. Pakistan, in its official response, denied any role in the attack and accused India of politicizing the tragedy.
Diplomatic analysts believe that bilateral relations, already strained, may deteriorate further as India pursues a more aggressive policy against entities operating out of Pakistani territory.
Security Tightened Across Northern States
Following the Pahalgam attack, heightened security protocols have been implemented across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi. Additional paramilitary forces have been deployed in vulnerable regions, and tourist activity in sensitive hill areas has been closely monitored.
The Amarnath Yatra, set to begin in June, is also under renewed review, with security agencies mapping risk zones along the route. Drone surveillance, biometric entry systems, and vehicle scanning stations are being upgraded to prevent similar incidents.
Intelligence and Counterterrorism Efforts Intensify
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) have been tasked with identifying the operational hierarchy behind the attack. According to sources, electronic surveillance and ground-level intelligence are being coordinated to track the handlers and financing channels of the perpetrators.
Additionally, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has begun tracing cross-border fund transfers to determine whether money-laundering or hawala channels were used to facilitate the attack. The government has also sought assistance from international anti-terror bodies to map suspicious financial networks.
Displacement and Impact on Tourism
Pahalgam, a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and religious significance, has seen a sharp decline in tourist footfall following the attack. Many local hotels have reported cancellations, and tour operators are facing a surge in queries regarding safety.
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) expressed concern over the economic impact on the local tourism-driven economy, urging the government to ensure peace and reassure travelers.
Meanwhile, residents in nearby villages have reported fear and anxiety, with many avoiding travel after dark. Authorities have assured that patrols and checkpoints have been reinforced to protect civilians and restore confidence in the region.
Political Ramifications Ahead of Elections
The Pahalgam terror attack has intensified national security discourse, particularly as several states head toward elections later this year. Political observers note that terrorism and border security are once again dominating political rallies and debates.
The ruling party has pointed to the attack as evidence of the need for a strong central leadership, while opposition parties have asked whether intelligence lapses contributed to the tragedy. The coming weeks are likely to see a sharp focus on internal security, foreign policy, and counterterrorism strategy during campaign speeches and policy declarations.
The Pahalgam terror attack has reignited both the national debate on terrorism and the government’s approach to internal security. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowing justice and Home Minister Amit Shah ordering swift identification and repatriation of Pakistani nationals, the administration is moving toward a more assertive stance.
Security agencies are now under intense pressure to deliver concrete results, not only to identify and eliminate the culprits but also to reassure a nation that has endured repeated tragedies. As intelligence operations continue and global diplomatic pressure builds, all eyes remain on India’s next steps in its war against terror.
