Rajnath Singh Warns of ‘Befitting Response’ Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions After Pahalgam Attack

Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated India’s resolve on Sunday, declaring that the country would respond decisively to those threatening its security.
Singh’s comments come amid escalating hostility after the attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which killed 26 people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Rajnath Singh himself had previously vowed a strong retaliation against the perpetrators.
Speaking publicly, Singh emphasized, “It is my duty to deliver an appropriate response to anyone who attempts to harm India. Everyone is familiar with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s determination and work ethic.”
Earlier this week, PM Modi had reportedly given the Indian Armed Forces complete operational freedom to respond to the attack, as confirmed by government sources to India Today TV. This development mirrors past military responses, such as the surgical strikes after the 2016 Uri attack and the Balakot airstrike following the 2019 Pulwama terror incident, both carried out under Modi’s government.
Following the recent attack, Prime Minister Modi had vowed to identify and punish the attackers and their supporters severely.
Meanwhile, in anticipation of potential Indian military action, Pakistan has placed its armed forces and security agencies on high alert. Pakistan has warned India against any aggressive moves and is actively seeking international support to de-escalate tensions.
A day after the assault in the Baisaran Valley, Singh underscored India’s commitment to bringing justice to all individuals responsible, including those operating behind the scenes. “We will not only target the direct perpetrators but also those who orchestrate these crimes from the shadows,” Singh said, reaffirming India’s zero-tolerance stance on terrorism.
Both nations remain vigilant, keeping their respective security forces on alert, while the global community continues urging restraint to prevent further escalation.