Government Acts Swiftly in Wake of Pahalgam Terror Attack
New Delhi, April 23 — In a swift response to the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, the central government convened an emergency meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Tuesday evening. Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the high-level meeting began at 6 PM at his official residence in New Delhi, reflecting the Centre’s immediate and serious response to the evolving security situation.
PM Modi Chairs High-Level Security Review
The meeting brought together key figures from the government’s top security and policy-making circles. Alongside the Prime Minister, attendees included Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The committee is reviewing the current situation on the ground, assessing national security preparedness, and outlining steps for a coordinated response.
Amit Shah Briefs Cabinet After On-Ground Assessment
Union Home Minister Amit Shah returned from Kashmir just hours before the CCS meeting. During his visit, he surveyed the attack site, interacted with injured civilians and their families, and held high-level discussions with security officials. Shah’s briefing to the CCS is based on direct observations and interactions during his visit, lending critical insights to the government’s deliberations.
Full Ministerial Participation Underscores National Priority
Finance Minister Sitharaman, who was away on an official visit, has reportedly cut her trip short to be part of the discussions. Though expected to arrive later in the night, her early return reflects the government’s unified and urgent approach to addressing the crisis.
On-Ground Insights Shape Strategic Dialogue
According to sources familiar with the meeting, Shah began by recounting the sequence of events surrounding the attack, outlining findings from local intelligence and security agencies. He also conveyed the sentiments of victims’ families and concerns raised by local officials. These on-ground insights are expected to heavily influence the Centre’s next steps.
Security and Intelligence Measures Under the Scanner
The CCS is currently reviewing the efficacy of existing intelligence mechanisms and exploring options for enhanced surveillance, faster response capabilities, and strengthened coordination among security forces. Possible adjustments to troop deployment and targeted counterterror operations are reportedly on the table.
Sitharaman to Join Briefing Following Abrupt Trip Cut
While Sitharaman’s formal participation is expected later in the evening, her early return has been welcomed as a sign of solidarity across the cabinet. Her inputs, particularly on emergency funding for security operations and rehabilitation efforts, will be key to shaping a comprehensive policy response.
Nation Watches as Leadership Charts Next Move
As the closed-door meeting continues, there is a growing sense of anticipation across the country. The Centre is expected to release an official statement detailing its immediate response and outlining broader measures to address the region’s security challenges. With national security once again under sharp focus, the decisions made tonight will carry lasting implications.