Srinagar, May 1, 2025 – Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has pledged to eradicate the terror infrastructure throughout Jammu and Kashmir, intensifying efforts following the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, mostly tourists. Speaking at a high-level security review meeting, Manoj Sinha underscored a determined approach to dismantle terrorist networks, targeting both operatives and their support systems.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir and the nation stand united in uprooting the sources of terror from across the border,” Manoj Sinha stated. He urged robust action against overground workers (OGWs) who aid terrorists with logistics, target identification, and escape routes. “The entire terror ecosystem must be permanently dismantled across the Union Territory,” he emphasized.
The Pahalgam attack, carried out by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), targeted civilians at Baisaran meadows, marking one of the deadliest strikes in the Kashmir Valley since the 2019 abrogation of Article 370. Security agencies have confirmed LeT’s role, releasing sketches of three suspected terrorists, with two believed to be local Kashmiris.
Security forces have responded with extensive counter-terrorism operations across J&K. Raids targeting suspected hideouts and associates included 13 in Doda district and 36 in Srinagar, conducted under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). A major operation in Kupwara uncovered a significant arms cache. The Indian Army and J&K Police are engaged in four key operations, two in South Kashmir’s Yarwan forest in Shopian, to disrupt terror networks.
Manoj Sinha has warned that those sheltering terrorists will face severe consequences, including potential property demolitions. While a demolition drive was paused after objections from regional parties like the National Conference, the crackdown on terror supporters continues unabated.
The attack has heightened India-Pakistan tensions, with India accusing Pakistan of sponsoring terrorism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leading security reviews, granted the armed forces full operational freedom for retaliatory measures. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) assessed the situation, indicating a strong response.
Internationally, the UN Security Council condemned the attack, and India is engaging non-permanent UNSC members to address cross-border terrorism. The United States called for de-escalation, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio pressing Pakistan to denounce the attack.
The attack has crippled J&K’s tourism, with 48 of 87 tourist sites closed due to security threats. The J&K administration, alongside the Centre, is working to revive tourism, with Bollywood figures and tour operators promoting safe travel. The Ministry of External Affairs is urging countries to lift travel advisories issued post-attack.
In a special J&K Assembly session, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack, calling for unity and rejecting political exploitation of statehood issues. Congress leader Digvijaya Singh supported PM Modi’s anti-terrorism efforts, noting widespread public protests in J&K against terrorism.
Manoj Sinha’s call to eliminate terror infrastructure reflects a strategy of aggressive security operations, intelligence-driven raids, and diplomatic engagement. As J&K navigates the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, the focus remains on neutralizing terror networks, delivering justice, and restoring stability. With enhanced security and national resolve, J&K aims to comprehensively eliminate terrorism.
