New Delhi Labels Pakistan Ballistic Missile Test as “Dangerous Escalation”
India has strongly criticized Pakistan’s reported preparations for a ballistic missile test, calling it a reckless act of provocation at a time when tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors are running high. Sources familiar with the situation say the planned test, in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, is seen as a deliberate attempt to raise the stakes with India.
“This is a dangerous escalation in an already volatile situation,” said one senior official who requested anonymity. “Testing ballistic missiles now, amid widespread outrage and security concerns, is not just irresponsible—it’s a blatant provocation.”
Tensions Surge After Deadly Pahalgam Terror Attack
On April 26, a deadly terrorist strike in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed the lives of 26 people, including several tourists. India has blamed cross-border elements from Pakistan for orchestrating the attack and has since announced a series of strong countermeasures:
Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
Closure of the Attari border crossing, the only operational land route
Halting of all trade, including indirect routes via third countries
India has also accused Pakistan of escalating military activities, including increased ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) and intensified naval drills in the Arabian Sea.
Rising Concerns Over Ceasefire Violations and Military Movements
While ceasefire violations along the LoC have been sporadic since the 2021 agreement, Indian defense officials report a notable uptick in cross-border firing since January, with 15 violations recorded before April alone. However, it was the widespread and simultaneous shelling on multiple Indian posts last Wednesday that marked a disturbing shift from isolated incidents to what India sees as a coordinated strategy.
Unlike previous flare-ups, these attacks have been persistent and widespread, significantly raising the threat perception on both sides of the border.
India Grants Military ‘Operational Freedom’
In response to the rising aggression and the Pahalgam terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted India’s armed forces full operational freedom. Military officials are now authorized to decide the mode, timing, and targets of any retaliation. Modi has vowed a “crushing blow to terrorism”, reinforcing India’s resolve to hold perpetrators and their supporters accountable.
Pakistan Denies Involvement, Warns of Strong Retaliation
While India points to Pakistan’s involvement, Islamabad has denied any role in the Pahalgam attack and has called for an independent international investigation. Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar told media on Wednesday that the country will not initiate any escalation but warned of a “very strong” response if provoked.
Pakistan has also retaliated diplomatically by closing its airspace to Indian commercial aircraft and suspending all trade links with India.
Experts Warn of Increased Instability in the Region
Security analysts warn that the Pakistan ballistic missile test, if carried out, could lead to a further spike in regional instability. With both nations on high alert, even a misstep or miscommunication could have serious consequences.
“This is a time for de-escalation, not brinkmanship,” said a retired Indian Army general. “Missile tests during such tense conditions send the wrong message—not just to the other side, but to the entire international community.”
Conclusion: A Tense Road Ahead
As the subcontinent watches with bated breath, the planned Pakistan ballistic missile test has only added fuel to an already dangerous fire. With diplomatic channels strained and military tensions high, the need for calm, dialogue, and restraint is more urgent than ever.
