Archive · 1 Oct 2025
Chidambaram: Considered Retaliation After 26/11 Attacks
After the 26/11 attacks, P. Chidambaram, the new Home Minister, thought about fighting back against those who attacked.
He talked with the Prime Minister about it.
However, the world, especially countries like the U.S., didn't want India to take military action.
The government decided to use diplomacy instead of starting a war, listening to advice from people in the government and other countries.
P. Chidambaram considered retaliatory action against Pakistan after 26/11 attacks.
He took charge as Home Minister on November 30, 2008, after Shivraj Patil resigned.
Chidambaram admitted his reluctance to leave his previous Finance Ministry position.
He discussed retribution with the Prime Minister and other officials.
Diplomatic means were chosen due to global pressure.
- Who
- P. Chidambaram
- What
- Discussion of potential retaliation post-26/11 attacks
- When
- Shortly after the 26/11 Mumbai attacks
- Where
- India
- Why
- To discuss the government's response to the attacks
Those Favoring Retaliation
Those Against Retaliation
Response to 26/11
Those Favoring Retaliation
Advocated for military action for retribution.
Those Against Retaliation
Emphasized diplomatic solutions and de-escalation.
- Event
- 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks
- Key Figure
- P. Chidambaram
- Position
- Former Union Home Minister
- Decision
- Considered retaliatory action
- Influence
- Diplomatic pressure against action
Sources
'Retribution Crossed My Mind But...' Chidambaram Admits US Asked India To 'Not Start War' After 26/11
'US stopped us from acting against Pak': Chidambaram's big 26/11 confession; BJP reacts – ‘too little, too late’
Chidambaram On 26/11: 'Retribution Was Discussed, But Govt Said No' - BJP Slams Sonia
P Chidambaram breaks silence on how UPA held back after 26/11 due to global pressure, BJP slams move
"US Said 'Don't Start A War'": P Chidambaram's 26/11 Admission, BJP Pounces
‘Too little, too late,’ BJP reacts to Chidambaram’s ‘explosive revelation’ on 26/11 – ‘US stopped us’
'Pressure from...': Chidambaram's big 26/11 admission
News18 Afternoon Digest: Chidambaram Admits To US Pressure After 26/11, Who Governs Gaza Under Trump’s Peace Plan And More
P Chidambaram says US urged India not to react after 26/11 attacks, draws BJP criticism
Harichandan slams Cong over 26/11 attack response
