NEW DELHI, May 11 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed India’s armed forces to adopt a more assertive approach in responding to cross-border terrorism, marking what senior government officials on Sunday described as a “new normal” in the country’s strategic posture toward Pakistan.
“Wahan se goli chalegi, toh yahan se gola chalega,” the Prime Minister told the armed forces following Operation Sindoor, sources said — a clear directive that any act of aggression must be met with greater force.
The instruction came after India launched Operation Sindoor, a military campaign that sources say remains ongoing.
“The cost of cross-border terrorism will be raised,” a senior official noted, adding that Pakistan “cannot continue to promote terrorism while expecting cooperation in areas of its choosing.”
Government officials asserted that India’s stance on the Kashmir issue remains unchanged. “There is no question of mediation. The only matter open for discussion is the return of territories under Pakistan’s illegal occupation,” sources emphasized.
They also confirmed that the Indus Waters Treaty would remain suspended for as long as terrorism emanating from Pakistan continues.
Despite escalating hostilities, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced on Saturday evening that India and Pakistan had agreed to an immediate cessation of military activities across land, air, and sea, following four days of cross-border drone and missile strikes.
The ceasefire understanding came after a backchannel initiative led by the United States. President Donald Trump was the first to announce the development, stating that the two nations had agreed to a “full and immediate ceasefire.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio followed with a statement confirming both countries had agreed to “begin talks on a broad set of issues at a neutral site.”
However, Indian officials clarified on Sunday that the only direct communication with Pakistan would occur at the level of the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs).
“There is no other channel or subject open for discussion,” a government source said.
They added that following the May 7 Indian strikes on terror infrastructure, Pakistan initiated contact through its DGMO on May 10 in an attempt to de-escalate the situation.
“Every Pakistani action since then has been met firmly,” officials stated, underlining India’s resolve to maintain strategic superiority under the new framework.
Operation Sindoor, which is ongoing, has been presented as a clear signal of India’s evolving approach to regional security threats.
