Union Home Minister Amit Shah, on May 30, hailed the Border Security Force (BSF) for its strong and decisive retaliation to Pakistani shelling along the Jammu frontier. The counterattack came in response to a deadly terror strike in Pahalgam on April 22, which killed 26 people, primarily tourists. According to Shah, the BSF’s powerful response resulted in the destruction and severe damage of more than 118 Pakistani posts, dealing a major blow to Pakistan’s border infrastructure and surveillance network.
Shah commended the BSF jawans stationed along the Jammu border, emphasizing their courage and swift action during escalating hostilities earlier in May. He stated that Pakistan would take “four to five years” to recover from the damage inflicted, particularly to its surveillance and communication systems.
Retaliation After Pahalgam Attack
The terror attack in Pahalgam had shocked the nation, leading to a massive outcry and calls for strict counter-terror measures. In response, Indian forces conducted strikes across multiple locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7. These retaliatory strikes were aimed at dismantling terror launchpads, communication nodes, and Pakistani military installations supporting insurgent activities.
Amit Shah highlighted that when Pakistan responded with shelling across the border and targeted civilian areas, it was the BSF that stepped up with a calculated and robust counter-attack. The BSF’s retaliation not only stopped further escalation but also left Pakistan’s frontline infrastructure in disarray.
Strategic Damage to Surveillance Network
According to information received from the BSF Director General, Pakistan’s surveillance systems suffered severe disruptions due to India’s retaliation. These included radar systems, communication towers, and observation posts along the border.
Amit Shah remarked, “They dismantled the enemy’s entire surveillance system piece by piece – a system that will take them four to five years to rebuild.” He further said that this setback would render Pakistan “incapable of waging a full-fledged information-based war” for a considerable time.
This damage is seen as a critical tactical win for Indian forces, especially in a terrain where surveillance plays a pivotal role in preventing infiltration and terror activity.
High Morale and Precision Intelligence
The Home Minister also praised the BSF’s preparedness during both peace and conflict. He emphasized that the BSF’s real-time intelligence gathering capabilities were crucial in planning and executing precise counter-operations.
“It is the readiness of our jawans during relative peace that makes our borders secure during times of conflict,” Shah said. He acknowledged the role of actionable intelligence and coordination in minimizing collateral damage while maximizing operational impact.
The government has also assured full support to the forces stationed along the border, including upgrades in defense technology, improved infrastructure, and enhanced communication networks.
Pakistan’s Growing Isolation
Experts believe that the recent events, including the destruction of critical Pakistani posts, further isolate Islamabad internationally. With internal economic challenges and growing diplomatic pressure, Pakistan may find it increasingly difficult to support or sponsor cross-border terrorism without facing severe consequences.
India’s firm response indicates a shift in border engagement strategy, focusing on deterrence through decisive action rather than reactive defense. The message is clear: any provocation will be met with overwhelming force.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What did Amit Shah say about the BSF’s action against Pakistan?
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the BSF for destroying and damaging over 118 Pakistani posts along the Jammu border in response to Pakistani shelling, calling it a significant strategic win.
2. What triggered the BSF’s retaliation against Pakistani posts?
The retaliation followed the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed. India responded with strikes in PoK and Pakistan on May 7, after which Pakistan initiated shelling along the border.
3. How has Pakistan been affected by the BSF’s counter-attack?
According to Shah, Pakistan’s surveillance and communication networks were severely damaged, making it difficult for them to conduct information-based warfare. It is estimated it may take them 4–5 years to fully rebuild these systems.
4. What role did intelligence play in the BSF’s retaliation?
Shah emphasized that the BSF acted on precise and real-time intelligence, which allowed them to target Pakistan’s key infrastructure while avoiding civilian casualties.
5. What is the broader impact of this border retaliation?
The operation sends a strong deterrent message to Pakistan and highlights India’s readiness to counter any cross-border aggression. It also impacts Pakistan’s operational capabilities and global image.
