Defence Minister Chairs Key Meeting; PM Modi Seeks Opposition Unity

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired a high-level meeting with Secretaries from various Ministries and Departments on May 8, 2025, to review national preparedness and inter-ministerial coordination in light of the recent developments regarding national security.

This meeting comes on the heels of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following ‘Operation Sindoor’, which was launched in retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack.

Government Response To Terrorism

As tensions continue to rise, the Centre has intensified efforts to ensure seamless coordination across various government agencies.

The meeting focused on operational continuity, institutional resilience, and readiness to address emerging threats.

PM Modi stressed the need for ministries to maintain foolproof functioning of essential systems, with an emphasis on emergency response, internal communication, and border security.

All ministries have identified their actionables in relation to the conflict, strengthening processes and preparing to deal with all possible contingencies.

Political Unity & Support for National Security

As the government presses ahead with its counter-terrorism efforts, political leaders have rallied behind the government’s decisive actions.

Union Minister JP Nadda, along with Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, participated in the all-party meeting to discuss the military’s action against terrorism and its broader implications.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, addressing the media before the meeting, emphasised the importance of national unity.

“PM Modi’s intentions are clear – we must stand united to face this critical situation,” Rijiju said.

Leaders across party lines expressed unwavering support for the military’s operations, particularly ‘Operation Sindoor’, which was executed with precision and focus.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay praised the Indian Armed Forces for the success of the operation, highlighting that the entire nation stands proud of the efforts.

He called for unity in confronting terrorism on the global stage.

Rising Tensions On The Line Of Control (LoC)

The meeting comes after reports of heavy shelling by the Pakistani Army along the LoC, resulting in civilian casualties in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district.

The Indian Army responded with measured retaliation to ensure the safety of its borders.

Despite the ceasefire violations, India has maintained its commitment to defending its sovereignty without escalating tensions unnecessarily.

Ongoing Measures & Preparedness

The government’s comprehensive approach also includes strengthening civil defence mechanisms, countering misinformation, and ensuring the security of critical infrastructure.

At the same time, authorities have closed airspace across several western cities, while key ministries maintain close coordination with state authorities.

The meeting with the Cabinet Secretary and senior officials from the Prime Minister’s Office reaffirms the government’s commitment to national security, operational preparedness, and citizen safety.

As the country navigates this sensitive period, PM Modi called for continued alertness, institutional synergy, and clear communication.

The all-party meeting is a critical step towards ensuring that India maintains a cohesive national stance, with both the government and opposition united in their resolve to address cross-border terrorism and protect the nation’s interests.

The operation has garnered widespread political backing. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi posted on X, “Proud of our Armed Forces. Jai Hind!” echoing a rare moment of unity across party lines in support of national security.

With Operation Sindoor, India has sent a strong message of deterrence while maintaining a restrained, calculated approach to cross-border terrorism.

Also Read: ‘Operation Sindoor’: A Tactical Strike Against Terrorist Networks