Strong reply would be given to the Pulwama attack: PM Modi

Guwahati: After the deadly terror attack in Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir where atleast 37 jawans have been killed, the Central Government has set up a meeting on Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting was also attended by Union Ministers Arun Jaitley, Rajnath Singh, Nirmala Sitharaman and Sushma Swaraj.

After attending the meeting, PM Narendra Modi said that a strong reply will be given to this attack. He thanked all the nations who have supported the government and strongly condemned the incident. "Our neighbouring country which is experiencing a major economic crisis thinks that it can ruin India which will never be fulfilled."

The PM also appealed to the people who is criticizing the government to stay away from political splinter groups as this is a very sensitive and emotional time. He said that the country is fighting unitedly and this tone should go to the world.

"We will crush terrorism and forces have been given full freedom. I understand that the nation is angry and we trust Indian Army's valour and courage but I want to say that forces responsible for the attack will be punished," PM Modi.

Talking to media after the meeting, Union Minister Arun Jaitley said that people who are responsible and have supported this act of terrorism will have to pay a heavy price for it. "As far as CRPF is concerned that we will be taking all possible steps to ensure that full security is maintained. We will ensure that those involved in this heinous crime will have to pay for it," Jaitley said.

He further stated that several details have been discussed at CCS meeting which cannot be disclosed and said that MEA will initiate all possible steps which are to be taken to ensure complete isolation of Pakistan of which incontrovertible is available of having a direct hand in this act.

Jaitley further informed that the CRPF will make detailed arrangement with regard to transporting the bodies of deceased to the families.

After the attack, the Modi Government also announced withdrawal of trade benefits accorded to Pakistan under Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status.

The terror attack left atleast 37 jawans killed and five injured and Pakistan based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed to be responsible for the attack.

The local police said that suicide bomber-driven vehicle came along the CRPF bus when a 78-vehicle convoy carrying 2,547 security personnel was going from the transit camp in Jammu to Srinagar and rammed it into the bus around 3.15 pm. The blast was followed by gunshots by terrorists. The attack happened in Goripora area of Awantipora in district Pulwama.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh headed to Srinagar to take stock of the situation.

Also Read: National News