Madhubani, Bihar – Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful message of resolve and retaliation following the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead, including 25 tourists and a local Kashmiri man. Speaking from Bihar’s Madhubani on Wednesday, the PM pledged that every terrorist and those backing them would be identified and brought to justice.
Opening his speech with a moment of silence to honor the victims, PM Modi said, “The entire nation is grieving. Someone has lost a son, someone a husband, someone a brother. From Kargil to Kanyakumari, there is pain, rage, and an unbreakable spirit.”
The attack, which occurred at a resort in Pahalgam—known for its natural beauty—shook the nation and sparked global outrage. PM Modi made it clear that the assault was not just on tourists but on the soul of India. “This was not just a strike on innocent people; it was an audacious blow to the heart of our country,” he said.
In his most direct reference to Pakistan yet, the Prime Minister stated: “The time has come to raze to the ground what remains of the terror infrastructure. The will of 140 crore Indians will shatter the backbone of those sheltering terror.”
Switching briefly to English, PM Modi sent a message to the international community:
“I say this to the whole world—India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the earth. India’s spirit will not be broken. Terrorism will not go unpunished. Justice will be done.”
He expressed gratitude to global leaders who have supported India during this difficult time. “Everyone who believes in humanity stands with us today,” he added.
PM Modi had been on a trip to Saudi Arabia at the time of the attack but returned immediately to oversee the response. He chaired a high-level meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security, where key decisions were made to respond both diplomatically and strategically.
Among the major decisions:
- India will suspend the Indus Water Treaty negotiations with Pakistan.
- The Integrated Check Post at Attari has been shut.
- Pakistani nationals are barred from entering India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme.
- Defence advisers in Pakistan’s High Commission have been declared Persona Non Grata.
- The strength of Pakistan’s diplomatic staff in India will be reduced from 55 to 30 by May 1.
The Centre has made it clear that this time, the response will not be limited to words.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reinforced this stand, saying, “India’s policy is one of zero tolerance toward terrorism. Not just the attackers, but those behind the curtain will also face consequences. A loud and clear answer is on the way.”
Public sentiment across India remains one of unity and fury, with citizens demanding justice and strict action. Protests, candlelight vigils, and shutdowns in parts of Jammu and Kashmir have underscored the nationwide impact of the tragedy.
As the nation mourns and security forces hunt down those responsible, one thing is certain: India’s resolve has only strengthened. The government’s response, both domestic and international, is unfolding rapidly—with one goal in sight: justice for the victims of Pahalgam.