Pakistan Panics As Modi Grants Indian Army “Free Hand” Amid Rising Tensions

New Delhi, May 1, 2025 – Tensions between India and Pakistan have reached a boiling point following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to grant the Indian Armed Forces complete operational freedom to respond to recent provocations along the Line of Control (LoC). The move comes in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives and was attributed to Pakistan-based terror groups, prompting a strong reaction from New Delhi.

High-Level Security Meeting Signals Decisive Action

On April 29, PM Modi chaired an urgent, high-level security meeting at his official residence in New Delhi, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff Anil Chauhan, and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Sources described the meeting as “extraordinary in urgency and nature,” focusing on actionable intelligence and strategic options to dismantle terror infrastructure across the border. Modi reportedly expressed unwavering confidence in the armed forces, authorizing them to determine the “mode, targets, and timing” of their response to Pakistan’s provocations.

The Prime Minister’s directive follows days of cease-fire violations by Pakistan, including unprovoked firing in Jammu’s Pargwal sector and along the LoC. The Indian Army and Border Security Force (BSF) have responded decisively, with reports indicating that Pakistani troops abandoned several LoC posts in retreat, removing flags and signaling disarray.

Pakistan’s Response: Panic and Defensive Posturing

The announcement has triggered widespread alarm in Pakistan, with its media outlets speculating about an imminent Indian military response. Pakistani Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, citing “credible intelligence,” warned of potential Indian action within 24 to 36 hours, while Defence Minister Khawaja Asif adopted a cautious tone, stating Pakistan would not strike first. Pakistani news channels and newspapers have claimed that an Indian attack is “inevitable,” reflecting growing unease in Islamabad.

The Pakistani military has been placed on high alert, but reports suggest a lack of cohesion, with some units reportedly withdrawing from forward positions along the LoC. This retreat has been interpreted as a sign of panic, particularly after India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the expulsion of Pakistani nationals with short-term visas, moves that have further strained bilateral relations.

Modi’s Resolve: A Shift in India’s Approach

PM Modi’s decision to grant the armed forces a “free hand” marks a continuation of his administration’s hardline stance against terrorism. In a public address earlier this week, Modi reiterated his commitment to pursuing terrorists and their backers “to the ends of the earth.” His remarks, coupled with the government’s diplomatic measures—such as declaring Pakistani defence advisors in New Delhi persona non grata—signal a shift from past restraint to a proactive and assertive policy.

Analysts note that Modi’s approach differs significantly from previous administrations, which often weighed the pros and cons of military action extensively. “Modi’s track record shows he prioritizes swift, decisive responses,” said retired Lt. Gen. Sanjay Kulkarni, a defence expert. “The days of providing Pakistan with credible proof are–

International Reactions and Diplomatic Fallout

The escalating tensions have drawn global attention, with mixed reactions from world leaders. U.S. President Donald Trump’s ambiguous comment that India and Pakistan would “figure it out” has been interpreted by some as tacit approval for India’s actions, though others see it as an attempt to maintain neutrality. India’s strong statement at the United Nations, labeling Pakistan a “rogue state fueling global terror,” has further isolated Islamabad diplomatically.

Meanwhile, the Indian government has expelled Pakistani defence, military, and naval advisors from New Delhi, while withdrawing its own advisors from Islamabad. These measures, combined with the revocation of visas for Indian nationals by Pakistan, have effectively frozen diplomatic channels between the two nations.

Congress Criticism and Domestic Politics

The escalating situation has also sparked domestic political debate. The opposition Congress party faced backlash after posting a controversial sketch depicting a headless figure with the caption “Zimmedari Ke Samay Gaayab!” (Absent at the Time of Responsibility). The post, aimed at criticizing Modi, was widely condemned as insensitive amid the national security crisis. Congress later clarified that the sketch was not intended to mock the armed forces or the government’s response.

What Lies Ahead?

As India’s armed forces prepare for potential action, the region braces for a volatile period. The Indian Army’s swift and proportionate responses to Pakistan’s recent provocations along the LoC indicate a high state of readiness. With Modi’s unequivocal support, the military is expected to adopt a multi-pronged strategy, potentially involving precision strikes on terror camps, as seen in the 2019 Balakot airstrikes.

For Pakistan, the pressure is mounting. Its economy, already strained, faces further challenges if India escalates diplomatic and economic measures. The international community, wary of a full-scale conflict between two nuclear-armed neighbors, is closely monitoring the situation.

As the world watches, Modi’s bold move has set the stage for a critical juncture in India-Pakistan relations. Whether this leads to a de-escalation through diplomatic backchannels or a decisive military response remains to be seen.