Following the recent ceasefire declaration between India and Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a high-level meeting to assess the situation and strategize the path forward. The meeting, held at the Prime Minister's residence on Sunday, included key figures from the defense and security establishment, signaling the importance of the matter.
Those in attendance included Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, and the chiefs of the tri-services. The high-profile attendance underscores the seriousness with which the Indian government is approaching the ceasefire and its implications for national security.
The meeting occurred amidst a fragile calm along the borders with Pakistan. While no fresh ceasefire violations have been reported since Saturday night, tensions remain palpable. Pakistan's initial violation of the ceasefire agreement, soon after its announcement, has cast a shadow on the prospects for lasting peace.
The ceasefire was initially announced by US President Donald Trump on Saturday. Subsequently, India stated that an understanding had been reached with Pakistan to halt firing and military actions. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar affirmed India's unwavering stance against terrorism. Despite Pakistan's initial agreement to the ceasefire, a violation occurred shortly thereafter, with reports of drone sightings and missile attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan. India responded swiftly, leading to a cessation of these activities.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri expressed serious concern over the violations, emphasizing that India's armed forces were responding appropriately. He urged Pakistan to take corrective measures and handle the situation responsibly. Despite the violations, Pakistan has stated its commitment to implementing the ceasefire agreement.
The recent escalation in tensions followed India's Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the death of 26 people. Operation Sindoor involved strikes on nine terror facilities in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Pakistan retaliated with drone attacks targeting areas in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
The high-level meeting indicates the government's commitment to maintaining a strong vigil and responding effectively to any further violations. The armed forces have been given strict instructions to deal firmly with any repetition of border violations along the International Border and the Line of Control (LoC).
Meanwhile, political reactions to the ceasefire and subsequent events have been varied. Congress leader P. Chidambaram questioned the timing of the ceasefire announcement. Congress has also called for an all-party meeting and a special session of Parliament to discuss the situation.
