After Pahalgam: A Crisis That Demands Caution, Not Conflict
The already delicate relationship between India and Pakistan has been pushed into a dangerous zone following the tragic attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir on April 22, 2025. This horrifying event—where 26 people, mostly Hindu tourists, were killed by unidentified gunmen—has become the epicenter of a rapidly worsening standoff between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
While the world mourns the victims and prays for peace, both countries have responded with swift, high-stakes decisions. But amid the emotional and political reactions, one key question remains: Shouldn’t there have been a thorough investigation first, before making irreversible moves?
What Happened in Pahalgam?
On a peaceful spring afternoon in Pahalgam—a scenic valley popular among tourists—unknown assailants disguised in camouflage opened fire on a group of Hindu pilgrims. Survivors claim the attackers asked people about their religion before opening fire. A group calling itself the “Kashmir Resistance” claimed responsibility, but its origins remain unclear.
India has blamed Pakistan-based militant groups, stating the attack fits a familiar pattern of cross-border terrorism. Pakistan, however, has strongly denied involvement, demanding proof and condemning the violence.
India’s Reaction: Fast and Forceful
In response, India has launched a series of aggressive diplomatic and strategic measures:
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Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, a decades-old water-sharing agreement that ensured stability in river management between the two countries.
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Downgrading of diplomatic ties, including the expulsion of Pakistani officials and reducing staff at both embassies.
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Closure of the Wagah-Attari border crossing and expulsion of Pakistani nationals on regional visas within 48 hours.
These moves signal India's seriousness—but they also risk isolating diplomatic channels, which are critical in moments of crisis.
Tough Questions for Indian Security: How Did the Attackers Get In?
If the attackers did indeed come from across the border, as India claims, then a serious question arises — how did they manage to enter such a high-security zone like Pahalgam undetected? The Indian Army and paramilitary forces are heavily deployed in the region, especially around tourist areas. Was the intelligence apparatus unaware? Was there a lapse in border security? If terrorists could infiltrate and launch such a deadly, targeted attack in broad daylight, shouldn't Indian authorities first examine their own internal security failures before pointing fingers?
Pakistan’s Countermeasures: Retaliation Mode
Pakistan has responded swiftly:
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Suspending the Simla Agreement, which has long governed peaceful dialogue between the two nations.
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Closing its airspace to Indian aircraft and halting bilateral trade.
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Placing its military on high alert, citing “credible intelligence” of an Indian strike within 24 to 36 hours.
With tensions rising on both sides, the threat of open conflict looms larger than ever.
The Missing Step: An Impartial Investigation
In such a grave situation, an impartial investigation should have been the first step. The truth must come before judgment.
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Jumping to conclusions without concrete evidence risks punishing the innocent, and could embolden those actually responsible.
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Joint investigations, or the inclusion of neutral international observers, might have helped determine the facts with credibility.
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This isn’t just about justice—it’s about preventing war based on assumptions.
If both nations truly wish for peace and regional stability, they must rise above political pressure and focus on facts over fury.
The Real Victims: Common People
While governments escalate the situation, it's the ordinary citizens who pay the price:
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Border communities now face fear, curfews, and potential displacement.
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Tourism in Kashmir, already fragile, has collapsed.
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Water insecurity, especially for Pakistan, has worsened with the treaty’s suspension.
In this political chess game, human lives are the pawns—and history has shown that wars leave deep scars that take generations to heal.
A Global Concern
The world is watching. The UN, the US, and international peacekeeping bodies have urged restraint, dialogue, and diplomacy. But ultimately, the responsibility lies with India and Pakistan to choose peace over provocation.
Conclusion: A Call for Rational Leadership
The Pahalgam attack was a national tragedy—but what comes next could be a regional catastrophe. Both India and Pakistan should have prioritized a transparent investigation before making unilateral moves. The pursuit of justice must not be driven by revenge, but by reason.
In a time where the world desperately needs peace, this is a chance for leadership rooted in wisdom, not war.
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