NSA Doval Meets PM Modi Again in 24 Hours: India Plans Response to Pakistan

Intensified Security Consultations
National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the second time in 24 hours at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi, to strategize India’s response to Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The 40-minute meeting, reported by India Today, reflects heightened urgency amid 12 nights of Pakistani ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC). With India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and nationwide civil defence drills set for May 7, the back-to-back talks signal a multi-pronged approach to counter cross-border terrorism attributed to Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Taiba’s proxy, The Resistance Front.

Context of Escalating Tensions
The Pahalgam attack, the deadliest since the 2019 Pulwama strike, prompted India to grant its armed forces “complete operational freedom” on April 29, as Modi vowed a “crushing blow” to terrorism. Doval’s meetings follow consultations with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, service chiefs, and Home Secretary Govind Mohan, focusing on military readiness and diplomatic measures like banning Pakistani imports and closing the Attari border. Pakistani small-arms fire across LoC sectors like Kupwara and Poonch, met with Indian retaliation, underscores the volatile climate. Doval likely briefed Modi on intelligence linking Pakistan’s ISI to the attack, shaping a response balancing defence and global diplomacy.

Strategic and Diplomatic Options
India’s strategy appears to blend military preparedness with economic pressure, evidenced by hydropower project expansions that could impact Pakistan’s water supply. The MHA’s May 7 mock drills, involving air raid sirens and blackouts, prepare civilians for potential hostilities. Diplomatically, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has engaged the UNSC, refuting Pakistan’s “false flag” claims. Doval’s expertise, honed during operations like the 2019 Balakot strike, likely informs options ranging from targeted strikes to covert measures, though sources indicate Modi seeks international backing for any action.

Implications for Regional Stability
The frequent Modi-Doval meetings, coupled with a Pakistani intruder’s arrest in Poonch, heighten fears of escalation between nuclear-armed neighbors. Global powers, including the U.S. and Russia, urge restraint, with UNSC consultations ongoing. India’s focus on a “clear and strong” response, backed by opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi, underscores national unity. As Doval and Modi finalize plans, the next 48 hours could redefine South Asia’s security landscape, with India poised to act decisively while navigating global scrutiny.