Rudolph Angler India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to track down and punish the perpetrators of a deadly attack in Kashmir that left dozens dead, mainly tourists. The incident, which occurred in the town of Pahalgam, has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.
Modi Promises Justice and National Unity
In a speech on Thursday in the Indian state of Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation’s shock over the violent attack in Kashmir. He promised that the government would identify all 26 attackers and bring them to justice.
“We will find and punish every terrorist and those who support them,” Modi said firmly, adding, “Terrorism will never divide our nation or shake our resolve.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that India stands united in grief and determination. He also announced an all-party meeting to discuss the national response, inviting opposition leaders to work together during the crisis.
Gunmen Target Tourists in Pahalgam
The attack took place on Tuesday in Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in Indian-administered Kashmir. Most of the victims were visitors from other parts of the country. Gunmen opened fire without warning, killing and injuring several people before fleeing the scene.
Security forces later identified the Resistance Front, a militant group, as being responsible. The group had issued a statement accusing “outsiders” of settling illegally in the region. Indian intelligence sources believe the Resistance Front operates as a proxy for Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based group previously linked to deadly attacks in India.
Delhi Points to Pakistan, Diplomatic Ties Strained
The Indian government reacted swiftly. On Wednesday night, officials formally blamed Pakistan for supporting cross-border terrorism. The Ministry of External Affairs suspended a key water-sharing treaty and closed the main border crossing between the two countries. Diplomatic relations were scaled back as part of India’s firm stance.
Senior members of Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have called for stronger military responses. BJP leader Amit Shah said, “This attack is not just a crime; it’s a challenge to India’s sovereignty. We must respond with strength.”
Pakistan Denies Involvement, Warns of Retaliation
The Pakistani government denied any connection to the attack. In a press briefing, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar described India’s accusations as “reckless and inflammatory.”
He said Pakistan’s National Security Committee would meet soon to discuss the situation and prepare possible responses. “India must avoid further provocation,” Dar warned, “Pakistan will respond if necessary to protect its interests.”
Kashmir Tensions Threaten Peace and Tourism Plans
The attack has dealt a serious blow to India’s efforts to promote peace and development in Kashmir. Since 2019, India has exercised tighter control over the region, hoping to reduce separatist violence and boost tourism.
Officials had promoted Kashmir as a safe travel destination in recent months. However, the deadly incident in Pahalgam has renewed concerns about safety and stability.
Tourism operators in the region report a surge in cancellations. “We had just started to see a return of visitors,” said Ahmad Dar, a hotel owner in Srinagar. “Now everything is uncertain again.”
Analysts Warn of Escalation Without Dialogue
Experts on regional security warn that tensions could spiral if both sides refuse to engage in diplomacy.
Dr. Meena Kapoor, a political analyst based in Delhi, noted:
“While India is right to seek justice, a military-first approach could increase the risk of wider conflict. It’s vital to maintain channels of communication.”
Indian newspapers have echoed similar concerns, urging the government to balance justice with restraint.
The Kashmir attack has reopened old wounds and threatens to destabilize the region once again. With tensions rising and diplomatic ties under strain, both India and Pakistan face critical decisions. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are on New Delhi’s next move — and how it will shape the future of Indo-Pakistani relations.