In the aftermath of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi arrived in Srinagar on Friday to assess the security situation and review counter-terror operations underway in the region.
During his visit, General Dwivedi was briefed by senior military officials at the 15 Corps Headquarters. Sources said the Army Chief was updated on the ongoing operations to eliminate the terrorists behind the April 22 attack in the Baisaran meadows of Pahalgam, which targeted civilians, primarily tourists.
According to reports, General Dwivedi was also apprised of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC), where Pakistani troops reportedly initiated small arms firing earlier today. The Indian Army responded swiftly and effectively. “There were no casualties,” officials confirmed.
The attack took place while U.S. Vice President JD Vance was on a visit to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Saudi Arabia, adding a sensitive international dimension to the incident.
Following the attack, the Indian Army has been placed on high alert and multiple search operations have been launched across south Kashmir to neutralise the terrorists. Security has also been ramped up along the LoC in view of increased ceasefire violations.
In addition to military measures, the central government has taken significant diplomatic steps:
- Closure of the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari.
- Suspension of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals.
- Declaration of Pakistani Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors in New Delhi as Persona Non Grata. They have one week to leave India.
- Reciprocal withdrawal of Indian military advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.
- Removal of five support staff from both high commissions.
“The posts of Service Advisors stand annulled,” said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, underlining India’s strong stance.
Meanwhile, massive public protests have erupted across several cities, with demonstrators demanding strong retaliatory action against Pakistan. The government’s response reflects both a military and diplomatic recalibration of ties with the neighboring country, amidst heightened tensions.
The Indian Army continues to operate with increased vigilance, while political and strategic circles assess long-term countermeasures in light of the attack.
