New Delhi: Days after the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said India would respond with full strength to those who dare to harm the country. Speaking at an event held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Singh reassured citizens that the government would take action in line with the nation’s expectations.
“As Defence Minister, I have the responsibility to protect the country’s borders alongside our brave soldiers,” Singh said. “And it is also my duty to deliver a strong reply to those who challenge our nation’s integrity.”
The minister’s remarks come amid heightened public anger over the April 22 attack in the popular tourist town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. In one of the worst attacks since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, terrorists opened fire on tourist buses, killing at least 26 civilians and injuring several others. The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility for the massacre.
India has since downgraded its diplomatic ties with Pakistan and revoked all visas issued to Pakistani nationals. Pakistani airlines have also been barred from Indian airspace, and trade activities between the two countries have come to a halt.
Singh also spoke about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, highlighting his resolve and ability to take bold decisions in difficult times. “The country is aware of PM Modi’s work ethic and determination. I want to assure everyone that under his leadership, things will move as per your expectations,” he added.
In a broader message, Singh drew a contrast between the physical defence of India and its cultural values. “While our soldiers fight on the battlefield, our saints protect our spiritual legacy on the path of life,” he said.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Modi also condemned the Pahalgam attack, vowing the “toughest punishment” for terrorists and their supporters. He noted the progress Kashmir has seen in tourism and youth opportunities and called the attack a desperate act aimed at halting the region’s development.
