In the wake of the devastating 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, India considered military retaliation against Pakistan, but ultimately refrained due to a combination of international pressure, primarily from the United States, and guidance from senior diplomats. This revelation, recently brought to light by former Home Minister P. Chidambaram, has ignited a political debate in India.
Chidambaram, who assumed the role of Home Minister shortly after the attacks, disclosed in an interview that "retribution crossed my mind". However, the government decided against military action after considering various factors. He stated that the "whole world descended upon Delhi to tell us don't start a war,". He specifically mentioned a visit from then US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who urged India not to react. Chidambaram said that Rice came to meet with him and the Prime Minister and told them, "please don't react".
The decision was also influenced by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), who advised against a physical reaction to the situation. The Prime Minister also discussed possible retaliation even when the attack was going on. They believed that diplomatic pressure and isolating Pakistan on the global stage would be more effective. This approach allowed India to maintain international focus on Pakistan's role in the Mumbai attacks and contributed to the UN's decision to impose sanctions on leaders of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
The Mumbai attacks, carried out by 10 Pakistani terrorists linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, resulted in the deaths of 175 people and injuries to over 300. The terrorists targeted various locations across Mumbai, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the Oberoi Trident, the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower hotel, the Leopold Cafe, and the Nariman House. The attacks exposed flaws in India's internal security and counter-terrorism infrastructure.
India's response to the 26/11 attacks involved both domestic and international measures. Domestically, the government attempted to strengthen its counter-terrorism infrastructure by passing the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and establishing the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Region hubs have been established for rapid response NSG units as well as the creation of counter-terrorism schools. The NIA is India's first statutory agency handling terrorism cases, dealing with aspects of investigation and prosecution. Internationally, India pursued diplomatic channels, providing a detailed dossier of the Mumbai attack to foreign ministers and briefing heads of missions in New Delhi.
The US has played a significant role in the relationship between India and Pakistan, often acting as a mediator during times of crisis. Following the 26/11 attacks, the US prioritized de-escalation and encouraged India to show restraint. The US feared that an Indian military offensive would unite Pakistanis behind their military and undermine the civilian leadership. There were also concerns about the military effectiveness of limited strikes.
Chidambaram's recent disclosure has drawn criticism from BJP leaders, who have labeled the admission as "too little, too late". They argue that the UPA government mishandled the situation due to pressure from foreign powers. Some BJP leaders have questioned whether senior Congress leaders or the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh blocked military action under the influence of the US.
Despite the decision not to retaliate militarily, India has since taken steps to improve its counter-terrorism capabilities and strengthen its security apparatus. These include upgrading weapons for Mumbai police, creating an anti-terror force called "Force One," and strengthening anti-terror laws with UAPA 2008. The federal National Investigation Agency was also formed.
