MANDI: Tensions between India and Pakistan have reached their highest levels in recent years in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 26 civilians were *killed.
While India has already imposed several diplomatic and economic sanctions on Pakistan, the public now demands a strong and lasting military response, says Brigadier Khushal Thakur (retd), a decorated hero of the Kargil War, in an exclusive interview to The Newz Radar.
Excerpts:
Q: It’s been over two weeks since the Pahalgam attack took place. While top leaders like Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh have issued strong statements, no concrete action has been taken so far. The public is growing impatient. What are your thoughts?
A: The anger and pain among the citizens are justified. This was one of the most brutal terror attacks in recent memory — people were killed after being identified by their religion. Some lost their fathers, some their husbands and some lost everything. Terrorism, which had somewhat subsided in recent years, has returned. Now is the time for a robust and decisive military response — something Pakistan remembers for generations.
Yes, diplomatic actions have been taken, but now the people want a “kinetic action”, even stronger than Balakot or Uri. The Prime Minister has held high-level meetings with the chiefs of all three armed forces, and I believe strong action is imminent. Military operations take time — they follow a planned escalation ladder. But make no mistake, the political will has been conveyed to the forces. Action is coming.
Q: It’s been over 35 years of dealing with terrorism in Kashmir. Shouldn’t India have a national-level strategy by now?
A: Absolutely. We must adopt a clear national doctrine, much like Israel does. Israel strikes back within 12 to 24 hours of any attack. We need pre-identified targets that are reviewed regularly. These targets must be ready for action at any time. A national-level doctrine, philosophy, and response mechanism are essential. Right now, Pakistan is economically crippled, their military morale is low and internal dissent is rising. It’s an ideal time to strike.
Q: Don’t you think the delay of two weeks has allowed Pakistan to become alert? Some even question PM Modi’s seriousness, given his political tours.
A: The world does not want a full-scale war. Military actions are not based purely on emotions. They involve significant planning and risk calculations. Every nation wants a 100% success rate when it goes to war. So while the emotions of the public are valid, the military must act strategically, not emotionally.
Q: Hasn’t the delay given Pakistan time to prepare?
A: Not necessarily. This could be part of India’s psychological warfare. The panic in Pakistan is evident. Their leaders are pleading with global powers to intervene. Their military is on edge. Meanwhile, India is calm and fully prepared. This imbalance is already working in India’s favour.
Q: As a military officer, how do you assess the current situation?
A: This is perhaps the best opportunity India has had in decades. Diplomatically, politically and militarily, India holds the upper hand. From Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Balochistan, Pakistan is unstable. Some regions even want to secede. Pakistan is the only country whose army owns the state — not the other way around. India must now show its strength as the world’s fifth most powerful military.
Q: Are we just paper tigers or is there real action on the ground?
A: This perception of inaction may exist, but it’s not true. Orders have been given and the military is surely working on them. I too hope the response is swift, strong and targeted — a fitting answer to 35 years of suffering.
Q: Was this a major intelligence failure? The Prime Minister used to say the country is in safe hands — so what happened?
A: There’s no denying that this attack represents an intelligence lapse, likely at the police level. However, it’s also true that terror incidents had drastically reduced in the past six–seven years. Terrorism in Kashmir isn’t going to vanish overnight. We’ll need to respond multiple times. I believe PM Modi will take stern action.
Q: If a war breaks out, how much will India lose?
A: War is never fought by soldiers alone as it involves the entire nation. Decisions are made after careful consideration of economic, diplomatic and strategic factors. This won’t be a short battle. It could be prolonged and costly.
Q: Critics argue that due to recruitment gaps, India doesn’t have enough troops.
A: Recruitment did suffer during the Covid years and that has had some effect. But modern warfare today is highly technology-driven, and sheer numbers aren’t as decisive as they once were.
Q: Agniveer recruitment is also under scrutiny. What’s your take?
A: I agree. The Agniveer scheme has reduced enthusiasm among youth to join the military. The government should definitely reconsider this policy.
Munish Sood
