PM Modi Holds High-Level Talks with Defence Secretary Amid LoC Clashes

Urgent Security Discussions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a critical meeting with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi, to address escalating tensions with Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians. The closed-door talks, reported by sources, focused on the Indian Army’s response to Pakistan’s 11th consecutive night of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) across sectors like Kupwara, Poonch, and Akhnoor. The meeting underscores India’s resolve to counter cross-border terrorism amid heightened alert status.

Context of LoC Tensions
The Pahalgam attack, attributed to Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Taiba, prompted India to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty and ban Pakistani goods, ships, and mail, intensifying bilateral friction. Pakistani troops have since engaged in unprovoked small-arms fire, targeting eight LoC sectors, with the Indian Army delivering proportionate retaliation. On April 29, Modi granted the armed forces “complete operational freedom” to determine the timing and mode of response, signaling a robust stance. The Defence Secretary’s briefing likely covered military preparedness, including troop deployments and strategic options, as Pakistan reinforces its LoC positions.

Strategic and Diplomatic Moves
India’s response extends beyond the battlefield. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has rallied international support, briefing UNSC members (except China and Pakistan) on Pakistan’s role in terrorism. The UNSC’s closed-door meeting on May 5 reflects global concern over the nuclear-armed neighbors’ standoff. Modi’s recent meetings with the Air Force and Navy chiefs, followed by a fire warning in the Arabian Sea, suggest a multi-front strategy to pressure Pakistan, possibly including naval posturing. The government aims to isolate Islamabad diplomatically while ensuring domestic unity, with opposition parties backing strong action.