PM Narendra Modi on Saturday visited the strategic Pathankot Air Force base for a first-hand assessment of the situation in the aftermath of the terror attack last Saturday.
Senior defence officials briefed PM Modi in great detail on how the forces neutralized a serious terror attack. National Security Advisor, Services Chiefs and NSG and BSF chiefs were also present.
Lauding the bravery of the defence forces, Prime Minister Modi said in a tweet that he was satisfied with the decision making and execution of the forces’ tactical response to the attack.
He noted the coordination among various field units and lauded the bravery and determination of the forces on the ground.
Six terrorists, believed to owe allegiance to Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed were gunned down by the security forces after a four-day gun battle. Seven security personnel also lost their lives.
The operation to ensure that no terrorist was hiding was carried out jointly by the Army, NSG and IAF’s Garud commandos.
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar had also visited the base on 5th January.
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had called up PM Modi and promised action against the perpetrators of the brazen attack.
In another development, the NIA has also made initial details of probe into the Pathankot attack public.
NIA’s forensic experts have taken DNA samples, weaponry, accessories and other important evidences from the site of attack.
NIA have also lifted the footprints believed to be of terrorists from the Bamihal village near border area and from within the Air force station and sent to CFSL for investigation.
In another development, Punjab’s deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal on Friday met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and sought more security personnel to guard the state’s border with Pakistan to check infiltration and “drug terrorism” sponsored by the neighbouring nation.
After a second high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan on Friday said it is “reviewing progress” on the leads provided by India which has sought “firm and immediate action” against the terrorists behind the attack on the Pathankot air base.
According to a statement issued after the meeting by Pakistan Prime Minister’s Office, the meeting also discussed the Pathankot attack incident and expressed Pakistan’s condemnation of incident and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to cooperate with India to completely eradicate the menace of terrorism.