In response to the evolving security situation and new threats, police forces and authorities across 244 districts in India have commenced preparations for civil defence mock drills, ordered by the Union Home Ministry. The exercises began on May 7 as part of enhanced measures to prepare for “new and complex threats” following the deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack.
Rehearsals for the mock drills were carried out in multiple regions, including the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh. The drills are aimed at reinforcing civil defence mechanisms and preparing for potential hostile attacks.
Union Home Ministry’s Response: Strengthening National Security
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan oversaw the preparations for these drills, underscoring the importance of reinforcing civil defence in light of the Pahalgam terror attack. This exercise comes as part of India’s strategy to bolster its readiness against unexpected security challenges.
Political Reactions and Questions Raised on Security Gaps
The deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, primarily tourists, has raised significant questions about the adequacy of security in the region. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Centre for failing to deploy sufficient security forces in Pahalgam, despite intelligence reports indicating a potential terror attack.
In a show of solidarity, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi met with the family of Navy Officer Lt Vinay Narwal, who was killed in the attack. His death, along with others in the attack, sparked a broader conversation about the vulnerability of high-profile tourist areas in the region.
UN Calls for Restraint Amid Tensions with Pakistan
On the global stage, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) addressed the growing tensions between India and Pakistan, urging both nations to engage in dialogue and exercise restraint. Diplomatic discussions reportedly focused on Pakistan’s involvement in the Pahalgam attack, specifically raising concerns over Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)'s role in the incident. The UNSC refused to entertain Pakistan’s “false flag” narrative, which sought to shift blame.
Pahalgam Terror Attack: A Deadly Assault on Civilians
The Pahalgam attack, one of the most brutal in recent years, occurred at the Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorists gunned down 26 civilians, mostly tourists, leaving several others injured. This act of terror marked the deadliest attack in the Kashmir Valley since 2019.
Pakistan’s Military Response and Growing Border Violations
Tensions between India and Pakistan remain high, with Pakistan’s military continuing to violate the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control (LoC) for the 12th consecutive night. Areas like Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajauri, and Mendhar have witnessed continued violations. The Indian Army has responded to these violations “promptly and proportionately,” reinforcing India’s stance on security along its borders.
Pakistan’s Aggressive Posturing and International Reaction
As tensions escalate, Pakistan's military has conducted multiple missile tests, raising concerns of potential military conflict. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that India could strike along the LoC at any time, to which Pakistan would respond with “full military might” to defend its sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Pakistan's parliament passed a unanimous resolution condemning India’s countermeasures in the wake of the Pahalgam attack, terming them part of a broader campaign to malign Pakistan’s image.
India’s Security Measures: Tightening the Web of Defence
Amid these developments, the Indian government continues to bolster its national security measures. Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s high-level security review meetings, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, along with senior armed forces leadership, has ensured the nation’s preparedness against potential security threats.
Domestic Security Threats: Influence of Social Media
On the domestic front, India's Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology has raised concerns about certain social media influencers and pages allegedly working against the country’s interests. This comes as the government remains vigilant over both internal and external threats to national security.
As the situation continues to evolve, India’s military and civil defence preparedness are under close scrutiny, with Operation Sindoor and national security measures expected to dominate discussions in the coming days.
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