High-Level Security Review Underway as Modi Set to Personally Lead Response
New Delhi/Riyadh, April 23, 2025 – In response to the shocking terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided to cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia. He is scheduled to return to India late Tuesday night, ahead of his originally planned schedule.
This swift change in itinerary comes just hours after militants opened fire on a group of civilians and tourists in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, killing 26 and injuring over 20. The attack, which marks one of the deadliest in the region in recent years, has sent shockwaves across the nation and the international community.
PM Modi’s Immediate Action
According to government sources, PM Modi canceled his participation in a high-level dinner hosted by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Prime Minister has been closely monitoring the situation from Riyadh and is now returning to personally oversee the national response to the tragedy.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval have updated the Saudi leadership about the attack and emphasized India's commitment to fighting terrorism.
Heightened Security and Home Minister’s Visit to Srinagar
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has flown to Srinagar to review ground-level developments and coordinate with security forces and intelligence agencies. High-level meetings are underway to reassess counterterrorism measures and strengthen surveillance across the Kashmir Valley.
Additional security deployments, drone surveillance, and patrolling have been intensified in sensitive districts, especially in Anantnag and Pulwama.
Nation and World React with Outrage
The global response has been swift. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, currently visiting India, strongly condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the victims and their families. Other world leaders, including those from France, Japan, and the European Union, also issued statements standing with India in its battle against terrorism.
Back home, political leaders across party lines have called for unity and resilience in the face of such heinous violence. Public demonstrations of grief and solidarity were reported in major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.
Investigation Underway – NIA Takes Charge
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched a probe to identify the assailants and their support network. Initial reports suggest that the attack was well-planned and could have links to cross-border terror outfits. Forensic teams are on the ground, collecting evidence and examining mobile data from the area.
Tourism Sector on Edge, Safety Measures Boosted
The attack has cast a shadow over Kashmir’s growing tourism industry. Just weeks ago, Pahalgam and Gulmarg saw record footfall during spring vacations. In response, the J&K government has issued safety guidelines for travelers and activated emergency helplines for affected families.
Conclusion: Government on High Alert, Justice Promised
The Pahalgam terror attack has brought national attention back to the volatility in Kashmir. With PM Modi returning home to lead the response and the NIA intensifying its investigation, the central government has assured citizens that justice will be swift and uncompromising. Meanwhile, security forces remain on high alert as operations continue to locate and neutralize those responsible.