Himachal Pradesh on Alert Amid India-Pakistan Tensions; Health Department Suspends Long Leave

Shimla, May 8 – In light of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, security agencies in Himachal Pradesh have been placed on high alert. The state government has responded swiftly by activating health and emergency services, and the Health Department has issued directives to suspend all long leaves for medical staff and officials.

Naresh Chauhan, Principal Media Advisor to the Chief Minister, informed the press that under “Operation Sindoor”, the Indian Armed Forces successfully struck terrorist hideouts across the border. He clarified that the operation was not directed against any country but was a targeted action against terrorism. The airstrikes were part of a strategic move to safeguard national security.

Chauhan further said that Himachalis are proud of the Indian military’s decisive response and expressed solidarity with the soldiers. He added that both the Congress Party and the Himachal Pradesh government firmly support the decisions taken by the central government.

Taking stock of the evolving situation, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu convened an emergency high-level meeting to review security measures across the state. He directed officials to keep all departments on alert and to further strengthen the state’s emergency response systems.

As part of these measures, the Health Department has issued a special Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) instructing all hospitals to remain fully prepared, ensure the availability of beds and essential supplies, and refrain from approving long-term leave for staff to ensure adequate manpower in case of emergencies.

The state government has also appealed to the public to remain calm, avoid spreading rumors, and maintain peace. Authorities have emphasized that while the situation is under control, vigilance is essential.