In the wake of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, the Indian Army Chief has directed all officials stationed in Jammu and Kashmir to remain on high alert. During his visit to the region, the Army Chief reviewed the current security situation, met with key officials including the 15 Corps Commander, the Director General of Police (J&K), and other top security personnel. He also paid a visit to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir to discuss coordinated strategic responses.
The visit comes as India steps up its internal security and diplomatic countermeasures following the Pahalgam tragedy. Union Home Minister Amit Shah earlier in the day instructed states to identify and ensure the return of all Pakistani nationals currently in India. Acting swiftly on this directive, the Pune district administration identified 111 Pakistani nationals and ordered their departure by April 27. However, a two-day extension has been granted to those who entered on medical visas, allowing them to stay until April 29.
Meanwhile, in a symbolic move, the Pakistani flag was removed from the historic table at Shimla’s Raj Bhawan where the Simla Accord was signed in 1972. The act follows Pakistan’s suspension of the accord as tensions escalate between the two nations over the recent terror attack. Signed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistan’s President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the accord had long been seen as a peace framework between the two countries.
