Border states assess Sindoor, security at Shah’s call

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah today chaired a security review meeting in New Delhi with Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors of States and Union Territories adjoining Pakistan and Nepal, addressing the response to the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack through Operation Sindoor. The meeting focused on border security and national coordination, with implications for India’s anti-terrorism policy and public morale, though multi-state coordination and media monitoring may present challenges.

The meeting, conducted via video conferencing, included Lieutenant Governors of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Chief Ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal, and a representative from the Sikkim government. Senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), including the Union Home Secretary, Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Director General of the Border Security Force (BSF), and Director General of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), also attended. Shah discussed Operation Sindoor, executed by the Indian armed forces on the night of May 6–7, 2025, targeting nine specific locations linked to terrorist activities. The operation destroyed terrorist training camps, weapon bases, and hideouts associated with organisations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Hizbul Mujahideen, and other groups, based on specific intelligence inputs. Analysis indicates the operation reinforces India’s border security framework, but sustained intelligence and cross-border coordination are essential to deter future threats.

Shah stated that Operation Sindoor was a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack, conveying a global message about India’s stance against terrorism. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for authorising the operation, which reflects the government’s policy of zero tolerance toward terrorism. All Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governors congratulated Modi and the three armed forces for the operation’s success, noting that the nation’s unified response has strengthened public morale. Analysis suggests this unity enhances government credibility and public trust, but maintaining support requires transparent communication to counter misinformation and ensure operational clarity.

Shah directed states to implement preparations as per guidelines issued for a mock drill, ensuring the smooth operation of essential services such as hospitals and fire services, and maintaining an uninterrupted supply of essential goods. He instructed states to keep the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Civil Defence, Home Guards, and National Cadet Corps (NCC) on alert to address any emerging situations. Public participation through citizens and non-governmental organisations was encouraged to support these efforts. Analysis indicates these measures aim to maintain societal stability during heightened security alerts, but effective implementation depends on state-level resource allocation and preparedness.

The Home Minister called for monitoring anti-national propaganda on social and other media platforms, urging prompt action in coordination with state governments and central agencies. Shah directed states to ensure seamless communication systems and strengthen security at vulnerable points to prevent exploitation by adversarial elements. He emphasised the need to avoid spreading unnecessary fear among the public and instructed states to take steps to spread awareness among the people against rumours. Shah also called for enhanced coordination between local administrations, the army, and paramilitary forces to streamline security operations. Analysis suggests that proactive media monitoring and public awareness campaigns are critical to countering propaganda, but balancing robust security measures with public calm requires careful messaging to prevent panic. Strengthening vulnerable points and inter-agency coordination may improve operational efficiency, but logistical challenges across diverse border states could complicate execution.

The meeting, according to Home Ministry sources, highlights India’s focus on border security and counter-terrorism, with Operation Sindoor demonstrating a proactive military response. The emphasis on state preparedness, media vigilance, and public engagement reflects a comprehensive approach to national security. Analysis indicates these efforts may deter future terrorist activities and reinforce India’s global anti-terrorism stance, but long-term success relies on sustained intelligence, effective state-central coordination, and public cooperation to maintain stability and counter adversarial narratives.

– global bihari bureau