On May 10, 2025, India and Pakistan reached an agreement to halt military actions after days of intense conflict, largely spurred by Pakistan’s long-standing use of terrorism as a tool of policy. This breakthrough was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly in constant communication with Indian and Pakistani leaders. Despite the external mediation, India’s military action, notably Operation Sindoor, made it clear that the Modi government will no longer tolerate Pakistan’s proxy terrorism. This new stance marks a shift in India’s security doctrine, where direct military retaliation is now a key element in countering terrorism.
The recent hostilities began after the terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22. It showcased Pakistan’s ongoing sponsorship of terrorist activities, which has destabilized the region for decades. In response, India’s military demonstrated extraordinary professionalism, targeting terrorist camps and infrastructure in Pakistan, and sending a clear message that terrorism cannot thrive under the cover of deniability. However, the price of peace was heavy: both Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab suffered civilian casualties, property damage, and the persistent anguish of war.
While the Modi government deserves credit for ensuring India’s readiness to take decisive action, it also must highlight the resilience of its democratic values. In a time of crisis, the government upheld the pluralism and multi-religious identity of India while addressing Pakistan’s attempts to stoke communal discord. The ceasefire is a positive development, but it’s imperative that the Indian government now shares its learnings from the conflict, ensuring that the nation understands the true extent of the operations, the lives lost, and the consequences of this escalation.
The opposition Congress party has demanded transparency, calling for an all-party meeting led by Prime Minister Modi, followed by a special session of Parliament. The government cannot afford to remain silent on crucial issues such as the nature of China’s reported support for Pakistan or the potential internationalization of the Kashmir dispute. Furthermore, the role of the United States, which has historically been involved in India-Pakistan matters, must be clarified to avoid any perception of foreign interference in India’s territorial issues.
The BJP and Congress have engaged in competitive rhetoric throughout the conflict, but such jingoistic attitudes serve no purpose in ensuring India’s long-term security. India’s political leadership must embrace a unified approach, prioritizing careful, strategic thinking over inflammatory slogans. Domestic consensus and social harmony will be essential in navigating these turbulent geopolitical waters.
The lesson from these intense days of military engagement is clear: India’s security and sovereignty must be safeguarded without succumbing to foreign meddling or internal divisions. The government must now focus on restoring peace, strengthening defense, and ensuring that Kashmir’s future remains solely in India’s hands.
