New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday issued a stern warning to those behind the Pahalgam terror attack, asserting that the war on terrorism is far from over. Speaking at an event in Delhi, Shah said the government would ensure each terrorist is held accountable. “Terrorists should not think they’ve won. This battle is ongoing, and we will avenge every life lost,” Shah said, invoking the phrase “chun chun ke badla lenge” (we will hunt them down one by one).
He underlined that the Narendra Modi-led NDA government is fully committed to eradicating terrorism from India and that this mission will be completed. “If anyone believes that a cowardly act like this marks their victory, let them know—this is Modi’s India. No one involved will be spared. Eliminating terrorism from every inch of our land is our firm resolve,” he declared.
Shah also noted the widespread international support India has received in the aftermath of the attack. “Not just 140 crore Indians, the entire world is with India in this fight. Nations across the globe are standing in solidarity with us against terrorism,” he said.
Pahalgam terror attack
The remarks come days after the April 22 attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district, where terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists near Pahalgam, killing 26 people and injuring several others. It was one of the most brutal assaults in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama bombing that killed 40 CRPF personnel.
In response, India has taken a series of strong diplomatic and administrative actions against Pakistan, accusing it of having cross-border links to the attack. On April 23, the Centre suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, downgraded diplomatic ties, and cancelled all visas granted to Pakistani citizens, except those on long-term visas.
Prime Minister Modi, at a high-level security review, also granted the armed forces complete operational liberty to plan India’s retaliation—including the choice of targets, methods, and timing.