New Delhi : The response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack reflects a significant shift in India’s counterterrorism doctrine, said Defence Analyst John Spencer, as the country now reacts swiftly and clearly, not to escalate tension but to prevent future violence and reestablish deterrence.
Spencer also said that India’s response to the Pahalgam terror attack in the form of Operation Sindoor displayed its military precision, and the leaders’ unity in the same.
“India’s response combined military precision with strategic messaging. It launched Operation Sindoor, targeting the infrastructure behind the attack, including cross-border training camps and staging areas used by Pakistan-based militant groups. Just as importantly, Indian leaders framed the attack within a larger pattern. They emphasized that terrorism would no longer be treated as isolated acts, and that those who support or enable such violence would also be held accountable,” he said.
“This reflects a significant shift in India’s counterterrorism doctrine. For years, India endured major attacks without a consistent policy of deterrence. That began to change after the Uri and Pulwama attacks. India now responds swiftly and clearly, not to escalate tension but to prevent future violence and reestablish deterrence,” he added.
He said that India has faced similar attacks- high-profile violence, targeting civilians or military targets.
Source : Economic Times
