Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised a tough and swift response after a deadly attack in Kashmir left 26 people dead. Speaking in Bihar on Wednesday, Modi declared that India would pursue and punish every person behind the mass shooting, calling it a direct assault on the nation’s peace and unity.

“We will not spare the attackers or those who support them. India will stand firm and fight back,” he said.

The shooting took place in the Pahalgam area, targeting civilians, including tourists. Officials believe the violence was aimed at damaging efforts to restore normal life in the region.

National Unity and All-Party Meeting Called

To build consensus on the government’s response, Modi called for an all-party meeting. He urged opposition parties to join hands in this moment of crisis. “This is not a political issue—it’s a national one. Terror has no place in our country,” he told the crowd.

The prime minister said the attack was not only on Kashmir but on every Indian and on humanity. His appeal for unity signals the government’s intent to take firm decisions with broad political support.

India Blames Pakistan for Supporting Militant Group

India’s security officials have blamed Pakistan for backing the group responsible for the attack. Authorities in New Delhi said the group called The Resistance Front was acting as a front for Lashkar-e-Taiba, a banned militant group.

In response, India has taken several diplomatic and strategic steps:

• Closed the main border crossing with Pakistan on Wednesday night.
• Suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a key water-sharing agreement.
• Downgraded diplomatic ties with Islamabad and warned of further measures if tensions rise.

A senior Indian official said, “Pakistan continues to support terrorism. This will not go unanswered.”

Pakistan Denies Involvement, Issues Warning

Pakistan has strongly denied the charges. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said India was using the attack as a reason to create conflict. “We had no part in the violence. Any military action by India will be met with a strong reply,” he said during a televised address.

Pakistan’s government has called an emergency session of its National Security Committee to discuss India’s actions and prepare its next moves. The situation has placed both countries on alert, with fears of another military standoff.

Shooting Targets Tourists in a Blow to Kashmir Stability

The shooting in Pahalgam was one of the worst attacks in recent years. According to local reports, gunmen opened fire on a group of tourists, killing 26 and injuring several more. The Resistance Front posted a message online claiming it targeted “illegal settlers.”

Indian officials dismissed the claim as propaganda. They said the attack was meant to create fear and disrupt peace in the region.

Since removing Kashmir’s special status in 2019, India has promoted tourism and development to boost stability. The region had recently seen a rise in tourist visits, and the government had hoped to present Kashmir as safe and open for business.

Experts Warn of Rising Tensions and Regional Risk

Military and political analysts have warned that both countries are on a dangerous path. Ajay Khanna, a Delhi-based security analyst, said, “This could easily escalate into something bigger. India is under pressure to respond, and Pakistan is already threatening retaliation.”

Global observers have also called for restraint. The United Nations issued a statement urging both sides to de-escalate and avoid any military confrontation.

The incident has shaken investor confidence as well. Indian stock indices opened lower Thursday as market fears about regional instability grew.

National Security and Regional Peace at Stake

India’s next moves are being watched closely. The prime minister has promised action, but the type and timing remain unclear. With rising public anger and a sense of urgency in New Delhi, swift steps are expected.