India May Strike Hard at PoK, Occupy Strategic Zones in Retaliation: PM Modi’s 'Identify, Trace, Punish' Doctrine Post-Pahalgam Terror Attack
By Vijesh Nair
Date: April 24, 2025
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Introduction
In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed the lives of several Indian Army personnel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled a high-stakes, no-tolerance counter-terror policy under the banner of “Identify, Trace, Punish.” The announcement marks a turning point in India’s internal security posture and has set in motion speculation of a potential military operation targeting Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)—not just as a retaliatory strike but as a prelude to potential territorial occupation of key strategic locations.
As tensions flare across the Line of Control (LoC) and national sentiment veers towards decisive retribution, India's leadership appears resolute in signaling that the era of passive diplomacy in the face of terrorism may be over.
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The Pahalgam Attack: A Brutal Provocation
The ambush in Pahalgam, carried out by heavily armed terrorists, resulted in the deaths of nine Indian soldiers and left multiple personnel critically injured. According to intelligence inputs, the attack was orchestrated by Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives, with support traced to handlers across the LoC.
The well-planned assault, executed during a routine patrol, bore signatures of cross-border coordination and logistical support—echoing a pattern seen in earlier terror strikes such as Pulwama (2019) and Uri (2016). The Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed that the attackers had high-grade weapons and communication tools, pointing clearly to foreign involvement.
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PM Modi’s Stern Message: "Identify, Trace, Punish"
Addressing the nation just 24 hours after the attack, PM Modi delivered one of his most assertive national security speeches to date:
> “Let there be no doubt—we will identify the attackers, trace every last one of them and their backers, and punish them with the full might of our forces. There is no sanctuary, no immunity, no escape. The sacrifice of our brave soldiers will not be in vain.”
This action plan—Identify, Trace, Punish—goes beyond immediate tactical response. It signals a broader policy shift with possible long-term strategic consequences, including the re-evaluation of India’s LoC strategy and a potential push toward asserting territorial control in PoK.
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Speculations of a Cross-Border Operation
Sources within the Ministry of Defence and top military analysts suggest that India may be preparing for an offensive operation inside PoK, similar in scale—but greater in ambition—than the 2016 surgical strikes or the 2019 Balakot airstrikes.
Unlike previous retaliatory measures that focused on "hit-and-return" tactics, this time military planners are reportedly evaluating the possibility of holding strategic positions—especially those known to house terror training camps and arms depots.
Retired Lt. General R. S. Panag told media,
> “India now has the political will and military readiness to go beyond symbolic strikes. Holding ground in PoK, even temporarily, would send an unmistakable message: cross-border terrorism will have territorial consequences.”
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Security Forces on High Alert
Following PM Modi’s speech, multiple Army divisions along the LoC have been placed on high alert. Satellite surveillance has been intensified, drone sorties have increased, and additional troops have been deployed in forward operating bases.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has reportedly repositioned fighter squadrons closer to the western sector, while naval intelligence is actively monitoring sea-based infiltration routes. Special Forces units are said to be in operational readiness mode, awaiting further instructions.
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Strategic Objectives in PoK: Why This Time Could Be Different
India’s potential targeting of PoK would not be just about retaliation. There are clear strategic objectives at play:
1. Dismantling Terror Infrastructure: Terror training camps in regions like Muzaffarabad and Neelum Valley have long functioned with impunity. These areas could now become targets of direct military action.
2. Control of Infiltration Routes: By occupying key ridges and passes along the LoC, Indian forces could disrupt infiltration corridors used by militants to enter Kashmir.
3. Psychological Warfare: Demonstrating control in PoK—even temporarily—would have a profound psychological impact on terror groups and their sponsors.
4. Diplomatic Leverage: A successful military hold in PoK would shift global narratives, particularly if India can present irrefutable proof of terror support from across the border.
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The Global Angle: How the World Is Watching
India’s expected move is drawing international attention. While the United States has urged both India and Pakistan to “exercise restraint,” key strategic allies like France, Israel, and Australia have expressed solidarity with India’s right to defend itself.
The United Nations Security Council held a closed-door session at the behest of several nations, with India presenting satellite images and intercepts proving foreign hand in the Pahalgam attack.
Even China, which has historically supported Pakistan diplomatically, issued a measured statement, calling for “stability in the region”—a departure from its usual tone.
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Domestic Support: Nation Rallies Behind Armed Forces
Across India, there is a wave of public support for strong military action. Candlelight marches for the fallen soldiers, trending hashtags like #StrikeBackHard, and calls for justice dominate the public discourse.
Opposition parties have also set aside political differences, issuing statements supporting the armed forces. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said,
> “This is a national crisis. We stand with the government in whatever step it takes to ensure justice for our soldiers.”
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The Pakistan Response: Denial and Warnings
As expected, Pakistan has denied any involvement in the Pahalgam attack. The Pakistani Foreign Office issued a statement claiming:
> “India is making baseless accusations to divert attention from its internal issues in Kashmir.”
At the same time, Pakistani armed forces have been placed on alert. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) warned that “any misadventure would be met with full force.”
However, India’s confidence stems from its enhanced operational capability and improved intelligence coordination between the Army, RAW, and IB, making a preemptive response more likely than ever before.
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Legal and Constitutional Dimensions: Revisiting the PoK Claim
Interestingly, alongside the military discourse, legal experts have reignited debates over India’s constitutional stance on PoK. Article 1 of the Indian Constitution and Parliament’s 1994 resolution clearly state that the entire territory of Jammu and Kashmir, including PoK, is an integral part of India.
BJP leaders have used this context to justify a potential occupation, framing it not as an invasion, but as a “restoration of rightful territory.”
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Challenges Ahead: Escalation Risks and Geopolitical Fallout
Despite the domestic and strategic rationale, any move to occupy parts of PoK comes with significant risks:
Escalation to Full-Scale War: Pakistan has a nuclear doctrine of “first use,” and any incursion could spiral quickly.
Global Pressure: Prolonged occupation could invite sanctions or censure unless supported by clear evidence and international diplomacy.
Terrorist Blowback: An offensive in PoK could trigger retaliatory terror attacks in major Indian cities.
These challenges, however, may not deter India’s leadership, especially under the current government’s assertive national security doctrine.
There is a great support from local population of india to attack' pakistan
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Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Indian Security Doctrine
As India stands on the brink of what could be its most significant military move since the Kargil War, the Pahalgam attack may well become the inflection point that reshapes the nation’s counter-terror policy.
Whether India opts for an immediate, targeted strike or a broader campaign with the intent to hold ground in PoK, one thing is certain: under PM Modi’s “Identify, Trace, Punish” doctrine, India has drawn a red line—terror will not go unanswered, and its backers will no longer be spared.
Stay connected to our blog for exclusive updates, expert opinions, and ground reports as this high-stakes situation continues to unfold.
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