Kashmir, May 9, 2025: Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened an urgent meeting with the chiefs of India’s border guarding forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police , Sashastra Seema Bal , and Central Industrial Security Force , to strengthen security along the nation’s borders. The discussions come in the wake of heightened tensions with Pakistan following India’s Operation Sindoor, a series of targeted strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (on May 6-7, 2025, in response to the deadly April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
Shah directed the BSF, tasked with guarding the India-Pakistan border, to maintain heightened vigilance to prevent infiltration and counter potential threats. Sources reveal that the Home Minister emphasized the need for airtight security measures, particularly along the volatile Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB). He also instructed the CISF to enhance security protocols at critical infrastructure, including airports, which have been placed on high alert after Pakistan’s retaliatory missile and drone attacks on May 8, 2025.
Pakistan’s counteroffensive targeted Indian cities in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan, launching over 100 missiles, with Jaisalmer bearing the brunt of more than 70 strikes. India’s armed forces responded decisively, neutralizing key Pakistani air defense systems and capturing a Pakistani pilot after downing a JF-17 jet in Rajasthan. The escalating conflict has led to civilian casualties on both sides, with India reporting 12 deaths and Pakistan claiming 31 due to cross-border hostilities.
In a separate meeting with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of border states, Shah described Operation Sindoor as a resolute response to Pakistan’s support for terrorism. He urged state governments to stockpile essential supplies, ensure public calm, and keep emergency units like the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) ready for rapid deployment. The Home Minister’s decision to cancel leave for paramilitary personnel underscores the critical nature of the situation.
The ongoing hostilities have disrupted normalcy, with 16 airports in northern and western India shut down and public events, including an IPL match in Dharamsala, canceled. Shah remains in close contact with Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to safeguard civilians and coordinate security operations in the region.
As India braces for further developments, Shah’s strategic oversight aims to fortify the nation’s defenses and send a clear message against cross-border aggression.