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12 Dead, 57 Injured in Heavy Pakistan Shelling Along LoC Following Indian Strikes

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12 Dead, 57 Injured in Heavy Pakistan Shelling Along LoC Following Indian Strikes

At least 12 civilians, including four children, were killed and 57 others injured as the Pakistan Army unleashed heavy artillery and mortar shelling along forward villages on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, officials confirmed.

The intense shelling came just hours after the Indian Armed Forces conducted missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoJK) under Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, south Kashmir, which had claimed 26 civilian lives.

According to officials, the Indian Army is responding firmly to the shelling, having destroyed several Pakistani posts, resulting in significant casualties on the enemy side.

⚠️ Poonch District Worst Hit

The Poonch district bore the brunt of the Pakistani attack, accounting for all 12 civilian deaths and 42 injuries, several of them critical. Residents were forced to seek refuge in underground bunkers or evacuate to safer locations, as shells rained down on villages and even reached the Poonch district headquarters.

The deceased were identified as:

  • Balvinder Kour alias “Ruby” (33)
  • Mohd Zain Khan (10)
  • Zoya Khan (12)
  • Mohd Akram (40)
  • Amrik Singh (55)
  • Mohd Iqbal (45)
  • Ranjeet Singh (48)
  • Shakeela Bi (40)
  • Amarjeet Singh (47)
  • Maryam Khatoon (7)
  • Vihaan Bhargav (13)
  • Mohd Rafi (40)

🔥 Widespread Destruction Across Multiple Sectors

Heavy shelling was reported from Balakote, Mendhar, Mankote, Krishna Ghati, Gulpur, Kerni, and even the Poonch bus stand, where several vehicles were damaged.
In Uri sector (Baramulla district), 10 people, including five children, were injured.
In Rajouri district, three others sustained injuries, while Karnah sector (Kupwara district) saw several houses catch fire.

Evacuating victims proved extremely challenging amid the continuing bombardment.

🪖 Indian Army Responds, Schools Ordered Shut

An Indian defence spokesperson stated that the Indian Army is responding in a “proportionate and calibrated manner,” inflicting heavy damage on Pakistani posts.

The Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, announced that all educational institutions across Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch districts would remain closed on Wednesday due to the volatile situation.

📢 Tensions Rise Amid Ceasefire Violations

This marks the 13th consecutive night of cross-border firing, despite the renewed India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement signed on February 25, 2021.

“Pakistan again violates the Ceasefire Agreement by firing artillery in Bhimber Gali in Poonch-Rajouri area. Indian Army is responding appropriately in a calibrated manner,” the ADGPI of the Indian Army posted on X.

🌍 Background: Operation Sindoor

Earlier this week, the Indian Armed Forces struck terror targets in Bhawalpur (Pakistan’s Punjab province), Kotli, and Muzaffarabad (PoJK) as part of Operation Sindoor, vowing to hold perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack accountable.

🗺️ Travel Advisory

Travelers and residents are advised to:

  • Avoid border areas
  • Follow official advisories
  • Remain indoors during shelling alerts

CM Omar Abdullah Calls for Caution After Pahalgam Attack, PDP’s Mehbooba Urges Release of Innocents

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CM Omar Abdullah Calls for Caution After Pahalgam Attack, PDP’s Mehbooba Urges Release of Innocents

Amid heightened security measures following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today urged the authorities to ensure that innocent civilians in Jammu and Kashmir are not subjected to collective punishment. The attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians on April 22, has drawn widespread condemnation across the country and within Kashmir itself.

Speaking to reporters, Abdullah acknowledged the tense atmosphere in the Valley but stressed the need for measured and wise action.

“We are aware of the prevailing atmosphere. It will take time. We cannot shut our eyes to reality, nor can we deny it,” Abdullah said.
“But we must also ensure that, in the process of apprehending those involved in the Pahalgam attack, innocent people are not troubled.”

He emphasized that while arrests and investigations are necessary, the government must avoid creating the impression that the entire population is being punished.

“It should not appear that, in an attempt to catch a few individuals, we are arresting the entire population of J&K,” he warned.

Addressing concerns over the Kulgam incident and reports of arrests across the Valley, Abdullah praised the people of Kashmir for openly condemning the Pahalgam attack.

“For the first time, the people of Kashmir have openly condemned such an attack, expressed their anger, and made it clear that they do not support it. Therefore, they should not be made to feel as though everyone is being punished.”

The Chief Minister also clarified that the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) drills at Dal Lake were not linked to the mock drills ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The exercise, he explained, was aimed at improving preparedness following incidents of shikaras capsizing in the lake during recent gusty evening winds.

Mehbooba Mufti Appeals for Release of Innocents

Meanwhile, former Chief Minister and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti has written to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and CM Omar Abdullah, urging an end to what she described as “mass retribution” following the attack.

In her letter, Mufti highlighted the “spontaneous and unprecedented” public response from Kashmiris who condemned the attack, observed shutdowns, and joined protests.

“Even in the immediate aftermath of the attack, local Kashmiris rushed to help the injured, transporting them to hospitals and donating blood — not as a favour but as a heartfelt duty toward their fellow citizens,” she wrote.

With the Shri Amarnath Yatra approaching, Mufti appealed to the administration to halt the wave of arrests and punitive measures.

“Let the people of Kashmir breathe easy and prepare to welcome the Yatris with the warmth and hospitality they are well recognized for,” Mufti urged.

⚠️ Background on the Pahalgam Attack

The April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam left 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen dead. The Indian Armed Forces have since launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK.

🗺️ Travel Advisory for Jammu & Kashmir

Due to heightened security operations, travelers are advised to stay updated on official advisories, avoid sensitive border regions, and comply with local guidelines.

Heavy Rain, Landslides Block Jammu-Srinagar Highway; Lightning Claims Life in Kashmir

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Heavy Rain, Landslides Block Jammu-Srinagar Highway; Lightning Claims Life in Kashmir

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remained closed for over seven hours today after heavy rain triggered landslides and mudslides in the Ramban area, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded. Meanwhile, one person was killed by lightning in Kashmir amid the severe weather conditions.

Officials reported that flash floods in the Chenab river forced authorities in Reasi and Akhnoor to issue warnings, advising the public to avoid venturing near the riverbanks. The rainfall since last evening also brought a noticeable drop in temperature across the Jammu region.

Due to poor weather and cloud cover, helicopter services to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine from Katra base camp were suspended for much of the day. However, battery cars, cable cars to Bhairon Mandir, and the on-foot pilgrimage continued without disruption.

Vehicular traffic came to a halt from both directions on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway after mudslides at Chamba Seri in Ramban. One lane of the four-lane highway was already blocked, and today’s additional landslides rendered the entire stretch impassable, affecting nearly 100 meters of roadway.

“Please check the status of the road before starting your journey,” a Traffic Police officer advised travelers.

Authorities confirmed that a cloudburst in Chamba Seri triggered the flash floods and mudslides. A landslide around 2:15 pm further blocked the route, though no casualties or injuries were reported. Three to four heavy machines were deployed to clear the debris, and NHAI Project Director, Ramban Sector, PK Phonsa, assured that the highway would be cleared by night.

After intensive efforts, the highway was cleared around 9 pm, allowing over 1,200 stranded vehicles to proceed. Light motor vehicles (LMVs) were first allowed from Jammu, followed by traffic from Kashmir, and finally heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) were cleared.

Today’s incident followed severe weather on April 20, when heavy rain and a cloudburst caused landslides in Ramban, killing three people and damaging numerous houses, shops, and roads. Vehicles buried under debris from that incident are still being recovered.

In addition to highway disruptions, rising water levels in the Chenab river created panic among communities living along its banks. Authorities issued alerts, urging residents to stay away from the river. On Friday, the release of water from the Salal Project led to a rapid rise in the river’s level, prompting warnings across Reasi, Akhnoor, Jourian, Pargwal, and Khour. By evening, the water level at Akhnoor measured 27 feet, approaching the 30-foot alert mark and nearing the 33-foot danger level.

In Kulgam district, a 37-year-old auto driver, Tariq Ahmad Padder of Gansorgam, was killed after being struck by lightning in his village. He was rushed to District Hospital Kulgam but was declared dead on arrival.

Meanwhile, gusty winds and moderate rainfall wreaked havoc in several areas, including a reported uprooted tree near SKICC, causing heavy traffic jams.

Tragedy also struck Dal Lake, where two boats capsized amid strong winds. A Quick Response Team (QRT) of SDRF and Fire & Emergency Department rescued four people, but one person—Tawfeeq Ahmad Chopan, son of Nikka, a resident of Jogi Lanker Rainawari—remains missing. Rescue operations were suspended at night due to darkness and will resume at first light tomorrow.

The severe weather also affected air travel, with two flights diverted due to windstorms. IndiGo flights 6E896/2305 (Delhi-Srinagar-Delhi) and 6E214 (Mumbai-Srinagar-IXJ) were rerouted to Chandigarh and Delhi after failing to land at Srinagar International Airport.

According to Director MeT Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, several central and southern parts of Kashmir received rain this afternoon, and brief showers with thunder and gusty winds are expected at isolated to scattered locations until May 5.

Kohli vs Dhoni: A Clash for the Ages at Chinnaswamy Tonight

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Kohli vs Dhoni: A Clash for the Ages at Chinnaswamy Tonight

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have a provisional playoff berth in sight, while Chennai Super Kings are in desperate need of a morale-lifting victory. But beyond team objectives, tonight’s IPL clash offers fans a chance to witness icons Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni face off—perhaps for the last time in the league.

A win tonight would swell RCB’s tally to 16 points, nearly securing a playoff spot with three games remaining. For CSK, already eliminated from playoff contention, victory could restore pride and help them avoid finishing last.

Each team’s hopes are closely tied to the form of Kohli and Dhoni, stalwarts of Indian cricket’s golden era. At the Chinnaswamy Stadium, they will go head-to-head, both seeking to deliver for their teams.

Kohli has hit a purple patch, scoring four fifties in his last five innings and pushing towards the Orange Cap with 443 runs. He’s found reliable support in Devdutt Padikkal, who’s notched up back-to-back fifties. But Kohli will hope for more from opener Phil Salt and for captain Rajat Patidar to rediscover his early-season form.

RCB’s batting firepower will face a struggling CSK bowling lineup, with Khaleel Ahmed and Noor Ahmad being their key bowlers. On the flip side, CSK’s underperforming batters—Ayush Mhatre, Sam Curran, Dewald Brevis, and Shivam Dube—must step up against a disciplined RCB attack led by Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, and Suyash Sharma.

While Dhoni’s quick cameos once lifted CSK’s totals, the top-order failures have dulled their impact this season. Still, for fans, seeing Kohli and Dhoni—once champions together—now rivals, is a nostalgic moment. Dhoni has hinted that his IPL future depends on his fitness for 2026, making tonight even more special.

RCB Squad:

Rajat Patidar (c), Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma (w), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma, Lungi Ngidi, Liam Livingstone, Swapnil Singh, Manoj Bhandage, Rasikh Dar Salam, Nuwan Thushara, Jacob Bethell, Mohit Rathee, Swastik Chikara, Abhinandan Singh.

CSK Squad:

MS Dhoni (c, wk), Shaik Rasheed, Ayush Mhatre, Deepak Hooda, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Matheesha Pathirana, Anshul Kamboj, R Ashwin, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Jamie Overton, Vijay Shankar, Rahul Tripathi, Shreyas Gopal, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, C Andre Siddarth, Vansh Bedi.

Match starts at 7:30 PM.

Congress Slams Modi Govt’s ‘U-Turn’ on Caste Census, Calls It a Victory of People’s Struggle

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Congress Slams Modi Govt’s ‘U-Turn’ on Caste Census, Calls It a Victory of People’s Struggle

The Congress party on Friday lashed out at the Modi government, accusing it of following a “predictable pattern” of first opposing progressive policies, defaming them, and ultimately adopting them under public pressure — a charge made in response to the Centre’s announcement to include caste enumeration in the next population census.

Congress General Secretary (Communications) Jairam Ramesh, in a sharp post on X (formerly Twitter), described the decision as a “milestone in the fight for social justice”, crediting the “unwavering fight” of Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, the Congress party, and numerous social activists for forcing the government’s hand.

“The Modi government, which tried to suppress the caste census for years, has finally succumbed to the relentless struggle of Rahul Gandhi, Congress, and social organizations,” Ramesh declared.

He alleged that the BJP-led government excels only at “diverting attention, running from real issues, and advancing a divisive agenda,” while lacking “policy or intention—only lies, propaganda, and hatred.”

🔍 ‘Master of U-turns’
Ramesh said the caste census is just the latest example of the BJP’s pattern of opposing, ridiculing, and eventually adopting policies originally championed by Congress.

He recalled Prime Minister Modi’s earlier criticism of schemes like MGNREGA, calling it a “monument of failure” in Parliament, only to later increase its budget during the COVID-19 crisis.

“Today, the same MGNREGA became the backbone of India’s poor. And the government tried to take credit for it,” Ramesh noted.

Similarly, he pointed to Aadhaar, GST, and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)—initiatives pioneered by the Congress but initially dismissed by BJP as flawed or ineffective, before being embraced and expanded by the same government.

“This list doesn’t end here. The BJP has neither vision nor direction. Only politics of deceit,” Ramesh asserted.

He also targeted the government’s cash assistance schemes for women, saying BJP once dismissed such promises as “mere politics of announcements,” but now runs similar programs under different names.

🗣️ A Headline Without a Deadline?
On Thursday, Congress had accused PM Modi of being a “master of giving a headline without a deadline”, alleging the announcement was a “diversionary tactic” amid calls for strong action following the Pahalgam terror attack.

“Where’s the deadline for the caste census?” Ramesh asked, questioning the Centre’s intent.

The government on Friday formally announced that caste enumeration will be part of India’s next decadal population census, marking the first such inclusion since Independence.

➡️ Congress, however, maintained skepticism, warning that without a clear timeline and genuine political will, the announcement risks becoming yet another unfulfilled promise.

PORTALS OF KEDARNATH TEMPLE OPEN AMID FLOWERS, FAITH AND FERVOUR

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PORTALS OF KEDARNATH TEMPLE OPEN AMID FLOWERS, FAITH AND FERVOUR

The sacred portals of the Himalayan shrine of Kedarnath were thrown open to devotees on Friday morning, marking the start of this year’s pilgrimage season with an air of devotion, celebration, and faith.

At 7 am, as chants of “Har Har Mahadev” echoed through the snow-capped peaks, over 12,000 pilgrims gathered at the 11,755-foot-high temple to witness the ceremonial reopening, temple committee officials said.

The shrine, adorned with 108 quintals of flowers across 54 varieties including roses and marigolds sourced from Nepal, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, stood resplendent against the dramatic mountain backdrop.

“The temple looked like a divine floral palace today,” said Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) media in-charge Harish Gaur.

The process of opening the gates began at 5 am with the Rawal (chief priest) Bhimashankar Ling leading rituals, accompanied by priests, MLA Asha Nautiyal, district officials, and spiritual leaders. Traditional prayers were held at the sanctum sanctorum before the doors were opened to the waiting devotees.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami performed the first puja, seeking blessings for the prosperity and welfare of the nation.

Kedarnath, one of the revered Char Dham sites and the 11th Jyotirlinga, draws lakhs of devotees every year. It is the third Char Dham temple to reopen this season following Gangotri and Yamunotri (April 30). Badrinath temple will open on May 4.

A new spiritual attraction this year is a grand ‘aarti’ at the confluence of the Mandakini and Saraswati rivers, modeled on the famed Ganga Aartis of Varanasi and Haridwar. “We have built ramps on three sides of the confluence for devotees to witness the aarti,” said BKTC CEO Vijay Prasad Thapliyal.

As pilgrims thronged the temple, officials assured that all arrangements have been made for their comfort and safety during the yatra.

➡️ With the temple gates now open, the spiritual heart of the Himalayas once again beats to the rhythm of devotion and timeless faith.

🗞️ Stay connected for more updates on the Char Dham Yatra 2025.

US URGES INDIA, PAKISTAN TO DE-ESCALATE AFTER PAHALGAM ATTACK

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US URGES INDIA, PAKISTAN TO DE-ESCALATE AFTER PAHALGAM ATTACK

In the wake of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, the United States has called on India and Pakistan to work together to reduce rising tensions, even as it reaffirmed support for India’s fight against terrorism.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held separate phone calls with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday, urging restraint while emphasizing accountability for the “perpetrators, backers and planners” of the April 22 attack.

“Discussed the Pahalgam terrorist attack with US @SecRubio yesterday. Its perpetrators, backers and planners must be brought to justice,” Jaishankar posted on X after the call, underscoring India’s firm resolve.

Rubio expressed sorrow over the attack, calling it “horrific” and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to counterterrorism cooperation with India, according to US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.

While extending solidarity, Rubio also encouraged India and Pakistan to maintain peace in South Asia through dialogue and de-escalation, Bruce noted.

Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, voicing America’s support for India’s “right to defend itself” and its “fight against terrorism.” Singh told Hegseth that Pakistan has been “exposed as a rogue state fueling global terrorism” and warned the world can no longer ignore such destabilizing actions.

In his call with Sharif, Rubio urged Islamabad’s cooperation in investigating what he termed an “unconscionable attack.” However, Pakistan’s readout stated Sharif rejected any link to the incident and called for an impartial probe.

As speculation grows over possible Indian military action across the border, global leaders are watching closely, with Washington balancing condemnation of terror with appeals for regional calm.

➡️ “The perpetrators will be punished. India’s fight against terror will continue relentlessly,” Jaishankar vowed, as diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes.

🗞️ Stay tuned for updates on India’s next steps and global reactions to the Pahalgam attack.

THE NATION STANDS FIRM: AMIT SHAH VOWS TO HUNT DOWN EVERY TERRORIST BEHIND PAHALGAM ATTACK

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THE NATION STANDS FIRM: AMIT SHAH VOWS TO HUNT DOWN EVERY TERRORIST BEHIND PAHALGAM ATTACK

In a fiery and resolute address, Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared an uncompromising pursuit of justice following the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. Speaking at an event unveiling a statue of Bodo leader Upendra Nath Brahma, Shah said, “Whoever has carried out this cowardly attack—we will hunt down every single one of them. This is Narendra Modi’s Government; no terrorist will be spared.”

He reaffirmed India’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, vowing relentless action until every terrorist and their network is uprooted.

“The whole world stands with India in this fight,” Shah emphasized, as global leaders continue to extend solidarity over the April 22 tragedy.

Shah also praised Brahma’s contribution to the Bodo community, unveiling his statue in Delhi as a symbol of pride and respect for tribal communities across India.

➡️ “Not just 140 crore Indians, but the entire world stands with India today in the war against terror,” Shah declared, pledging justice for every victim.

The event, attended by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, also highlighted progress on the Bodo peace accord, with Shah urging full implementation of remaining provisions.

J&K Sports Taekwondo Association Shines with 14 Medals at National Muay Thai Championship

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J&K Sports Taekwondo Association Shines with 14 Medals at National Muay Thai Championship

The J&K Sports Taekwondo Association made the Union Territory proud by clinching an impressive 14 medals at the National Muay Thai India Championship, held from April 25 to 27 at the Sports Complex, Sector 42, Chandigarh.

The championship, organized by the World Boxing Council Amateur Muay Thai India, saw participation from 190 athletes representing 19 states across the country.

A 15-member contingent from J&K, led by Anil Nanda (Hall of Fame Awardee) and Girls’ Team Manager Ronika Rathore, delivered an outstanding performance, securing 6 gold, 7 silver, and 1 bronze medal.

The gold medal winners were Samarth Gupta (Jodhamal Public School), Aree Bhat (British International School), Rajveer Gupta (British International School), Bhumiksha Sharma (British International School), Divya Chitrangada (Shemfort Futuristic School, Birpur), and Cheryl Pachnanda (Presentation Convent School, Gandhi Nagar).

Silver medals were won by Mehar Choudhary (Heritage School), Jayani Suri (British International School), Rajnandni Gupta (British International School), Anshuman Singh Jamwal (Heritage School), Taarush Bamba (Jodhamal Public School), and Viraj Singh (Heritage School).

During a felicitation ceremony, Dr Farooq Abdullah, President of the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference and former Chief Minister of J&K, congratulated the team for their achievements. He emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent and providing quality coaching to help athletes excel at national and international arenas.

India Reaches Out to Denmark, UNSC Members Over Pahalgam Terror Attack

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India Reaches Out to Denmark, UNSC Members Over Pahalgam Terror Attack

: India on Wednesday continued its diplomatic outreach to brief non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which has been linked to cross-border elements.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a phone conversation with his Danish counterpart Lars Lokke Rasmussen, conveying India’s resolve to bring the perpetrators of the April 22 attack to justice.

“Spoke with FM @larsloekke of Denmark. Appreciate his support and solidarity over the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Also exchanged views about our bilateral cooperation,” Jaishankar posted on X.

The phone call followed Jaishankar’s discussions on Tuesday with foreign ministers of seven other non-permanent UNSC members—Algeria, Greece, Guyana, Panama, Slovenia, Sierra Leone, and Somalia—as India seeks global solidarity against terrorism.

This diplomatic push gains significance with Pakistan’s current membership in the UNSC for the 2025–26 term.

India’s outreach comes amid strong condemnation of the attack by the UN Security Council, though New Delhi reportedly considers the Council’s statement “inadequate” in addressing the attack’s cross-border dimensions.

Several world leaders have also directly expressed solidarity with India, including US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Others who reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi include Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba, UAE President Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Dutch PM Dick Schoof, US Vice President JD Vance, Australian PM Anthony Albanese, and Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli.

Meanwhile, India continues to weigh its response options. Prime Minister Modi, in his recent ‘Mann ki Baat’ address, reiterated that those responsible for the Pahalgam attack “will be served with the harshest response.”

“The whole world stands with 140 crore Indians in our fight against terrorism. I once again assure the affected families that they will get justice,” Modi said.

On Tuesday, Modi chaired a high-level meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and the chiefs of the three armed forces, reaffirming his government’s resolve to deal a “crushing blow” to terrorism.

Government sources said Modi granted the armed forces “complete operational freedom” to decide on the mode, targets, and timing of India’s response.

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