OPINION | Modi gives armed forces a free hand: Panic in Pakistan

Decks have been cleared for the armed forces to decide on the timing, targets and mode of response to Pakistan post-Pahalgam killings. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the armed forces complete operational freedom. On Wednesday, the Cabinet Committee on Security and the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs met to take necessary actions. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat met the Prime Minister on Tuesday night and discussed the situation. Late after midnight, Pakistan's Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, quoting "credible intelligence", said Indian military action was expected anytime within the next 24 to 36 hours. I would like to point out one thing here: Nobody should be surprised by PM Modi giving full freedom to the armed forces to take military action. Modi always walks the talk. He had clearly said that Pakistan will have to pay a big price for the barbaric attack that took place. Remember Modi's words. He had said, "From the soil of Bihar, I say to the whole world India will identify and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the earth." It is this courage and conviction that makes Modi different from other leaders. Earlier, prime ministers used to think about the pros and cons of any military action and used to prevaricate. But Modi's track record is different. He speaks out clearly and asks the army to take the fight into the enemy's territory. The days of providing credible proof to Pakistan are over. The need for diplomatic niceties is no more required. Pakistan will be given a reply in its own language. Modi has said, the enemies of the nation will be razed to the ground. The time has come. Leaders of Pakistan understand this. Pakistan's political and military leadership knows that they have little time left. 

India