Following the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, India adopted a multi-pronged approach encompassing strategic diplomacy, counter-terrorism measures, and global outreach to address the situation. The nation demonstrated a unified front, with leaders across the political spectrum condemning the attack and emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance against terrorism. This consensus-building was crucial in projecting a strong message to the international community and ensuring that the Pahalgam attack was not seen as merely an internal matter but as a significant turning point in the global fight against cross-border terrorism.
India's diplomatic efforts involved reaching out to various countries to highlight Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism and to emphasize that the conflict was triggered by the Pahalgam attack, not by India's subsequent counter-terrorism operations. Multi-party parliamentary delegations were dispatched to 33 global capitals to convey India's perspective and garner international support. These delegations included representatives from various political parties, showcasing a united front against terrorism that transcended domestic political divides. By involving elected Members of Parliament (MPs) in foreign policy, the government effectively democratized international engagement, potentially establishing a lasting foundation for Indian diplomacy.
At international forums like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), India actively sought to include language condemning the Pahalgam attack in joint communiqués. However, disagreements arose, particularly with Pakistan, leading to a rare failure to adopt a joint statement at the SCO Defence Ministers' meeting. Despite these challenges, India remained firm in its stance, refusing to compromise on the issue of terrorism and holding Pakistan accountable for its support of terrorist activities.
India's response to the Pahalgam attack set a clear precedent: it would not tolerate cross-border terrorism and would take necessary measures to protect its interests. This resolute approach, combined with strategic diplomacy and consensus-building, reflected India's growing maturity as a nation-state, one that is capable of navigating complex international relations and effectively addressing security challenges. India made it clear that it would not allow nuclear blackmail to deter it from responding to terror emanating from Pakistan.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar characterized the Pahalgam attack as an act of economic warfare aimed at undermining tourism in Kashmir. He asserted that India would not allow terrorists to operate with impunity and would hold accountable those who support and finance them. This firm stance underscored India's commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
