5 signs that a strike against Pakistan may be 'imminent'

A series of high-level meetings and strategic drills in recent days has fuelled speculation that India may be preparing for a retaliatory military strike on Pakistan following last month’s terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 innocent tourists.

Here are five indicators suggesting a potential Indian strike against Pakistan may be imminent:

1. PM Modi’s consultations with military leadership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has held meetings with the chiefs of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force to assess the nation’s military preparedness. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi briefed the Prime Minister on the readiness of their respective forces. These consultations suggest a thorough evaluation of India’s strategic options in response to the Pahalgam attack.

2. ‘Free hand’ to Armed Forces

In the aftermath of the attack, Prime Minister Modi has reportedly granted the Indian Armed Forces complete operational freedom— a ‘free hand’— to determine the timing, mode, and targets of a potential response. That is a clear indicator of the seriousness with which the government is approaching the situation.

3. Defence minister’s assertive statements

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has publicly assured that a “befitting reply” will be delivered to those responsible for the Pahalgam massacre. He emphasised that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the desired retribution will be achieved.

4. Blackout drill in Ferozepur Cantonment

A 30-minute blackout rehearsal was conducted in the Ferozepur Cantonment area of Punjab on Sunday evening. The drill, which involved turning off all lights in the area, was part of heightened security measures amid rising tensions with Pakistan. Such preparations could be seen as a sign of ensuring readiness for potential escalations.

5. Defence Secretary’s briefing to PM Modi

Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met with PM Modi on Monday (May 5) to provide a comprehensive briefing on India’s security posture and readiness in light of the Pahalgam attack.

These developments occur against a backdrop of increased ceasefire violations along the Line of Control, with Pakistan reporting “credible intelligence” of a potential Indian strike within days . Both nations have taken reciprocal measures, including airspace closures and diplomatic expulsions, further intensifying the situation.

With inputs from agencies