- The fast-paced, action-filled fortnight aftermath of the Pahalgam attack on the innocent tourists in Jammu & Kashmir must have made ordinary citizens anxious since the trajectory could have veered around from confrontation to catastrophe in no time. The whole world is aware of how the Indian armed forces executed Operation Sindoor with such professionalism, precision, and accurate execution of intended tasks targeting terrorists. In doing so, the Pakistani military’s bluff was laid bare, as it was also revealed that threats of nuclear weapons will not hold any water for the determined Indian think tank led by the indomitable Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Pakistani deep state was brought to its knees, which would be tantamount to an understatement.
PC: ETV Bharat
- Now that the objective of altering the hitherto accepted norms of the narrative on J&K has been changed for good, the Indians agreeing to a ceasefire should be construed as a mature conduct befitting a world power that we aspire to be sooner rather than later. Though popular sentiment prevailing in the country is for an all-out annihilation of Pakistan in all respects, it suffices to mention that India has proved beyond our neighbouring country where we stand vis-à-vis the economic might, military might, and optics of showcasing maturity as a responsible/confident nation. However, we should ensure the normalcy in the valley is nurtured back without much ado. Note that the Pahalgam terror attack was specifically designed to disrupt normalcy in J&K.
PC: Times of India
- As such, Pakistan will try to capitalise on the break created by hostilities. It will keep LoC warm with sporadic firing below a certain threshold, try to push in more terrorists over the summer months, and revert to a multi-pronged approach to stretch our security forces. We must counter these efforts with absolute conviction. Restoring confidence in the local security apparatus is imperative to send out the message that Indian forces will hunt down the perpetrators wherever they are. This iron-clad security promise must be the bedrock of normalcy in J&K. Of course, we must bring terrorist infiltration to zero. Post-Pahalgam, even a single successful infiltration is one too many. Terrorism of any kind perpetrated will be a setback. We must be alert here.
PC: ThePrint
- Thus, enhanced investment in local intelligence, increased security at LoC and IB, and perhaps greater tech-based solutions to create an impregnable defensive architecture are inevitable. This must be achieved by overcoming the topographical and climatic challenges the valley offers. Nonetheless, these must be addressed on a war footing. Moreover, our response should not undermine the fruits of normalcy that residents of J&K have come to enjoy. We must not go back to a situation where security forces clamp down on everything, as this would only serve Pakistan’s purpose, as scuttling normalization was its goal always. We also need smarter security. Those living near the LoC deserve better assistance and protection. Let’s defeat Pakistan’s evil designs.
