Rajnath Singh Meets PM Modi Amid Rising Tensions Over Pahalgam Attack

Amind increasing tensions between India and Pakistan after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is said to have met PM Narendra Modi to deliberate strategic options.

At a time when India is considering issuing a military response against Pakistan for its role in the attack that killed 26, of whom the majority were tourists, India has already taken major diplomatic and military actions, such as suspending the Indus Waters Treaty.

Strategic Meeting: PM Modi and Rajnath Singh

On Monday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed PM Modi about military action in Kashmir and on the Western front. The meeting took around 40 minutes. Both leaders discussed India’s strategy to retaliate against Pakistan’s role in the Pahalgam attack.

Earlier, Rajnath had met Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, preparing the ground for India’s military response. PM Modi also ensured that India would chase terrorists and their backers “to the ends of the Earth.” He committed that terrorism will not shatter India’s soul.

Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty: A Diplomatic Move

One of India’s strongest actions was suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. This 1960 pact between India and Pakistan regulates water distribution. India has referred to its move as an “act of war” by Pakistan. While it won’t bring about immediate water shortages, India’s decision now permits it to regulate water flow. This can impact Pakistan’s agriculture, hydropower, and water supply, especially during peak summer months.

Experts, such as Professor Medha Bisht, describe how India may be able to control water flow to create water shortages or small floods in Pakistan. India is also engaged in constructing infrastructure to ensure maximum control over the Indus river system in the long term.

Military Response: Will India Strike?

India seems ready for a military response to the Pahalgam attack. Although India’s exact military actions remain unclear, Modi’s statements suggest a strong stance. India is already taking diplomatic and military measures.

The suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the possibility of military retaliation signal that India will no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism.

Rising Diplomatic Tensions

The Pahalgam attack has brought about a critical realignment in India’s relations with Pakistan. India has indicated its stance, employing both military and diplomatic means. Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and even possibilities of military action demonstrate India’s determination.

Whether by utilizing military strikes or by exerting pressure on water resources, India is ready to act. The next few weeks will most probably witness increased tension as both countries deal with this unstable situation.