The Monsoon session of Parliament began today, July 21, 2025, and is expected to be a heated one, with the opposition demanding a discussion on "Operation Sindoor". The session is scheduled to conclude on August 21.

Operation Sindoor: Context and Details

Operation Sindoor was a military campaign launched by India on May 7, 2025, in response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the death of 26 civilians. India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, a charge Pakistan denied.

The operation involved missile strikes and air strikes on alleged terrorist infrastructure facilities belonging to Pakistan-based militant groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. India stated that the strikes were precise and targeted only terror-related infrastructure, avoiding civilian or military facilities. However, Pakistan claimed that the strikes hit civilian areas, including mosques, causing civilian casualties.

Following these strikes, there were reports of border skirmishes and drone strikes between the two countries. Pakistan retaliated with mortar shelling in Jammu, causing damage to homes and religious sites. Some reports even indicated the downing of jets from both sides, though these claims remain contested.

Parliamentary Response and Demands

The opposition is pressing for a detailed discussion on Operation Sindoor, raising concerns about the government's handling of the situation and seeking further clarification on various aspects of the operation. Some members have criticized the government for the delay in apprehending the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack.

Specifically, the opposition is likely to raise questions regarding:

• The rationale and objectives of Operation Sindoor.
• The extent of civilian casualties and damage.
• The impact on the relationship between India and Pakistan.
• Claims made by former U.S. President Donald Trump about mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

Several members of the Congress and other opposition parties have submitted adjournment notices in both houses, seeking to suspend the regular business to allow for an immediate discussion on the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor.

Government's Stance

The government has stated its willingness to discuss all issues, including Operation Sindoor, within the established parliamentary rules and procedures. Union Minister J.P. Nadda has affirmed the government's readiness for any discussion regarding the issues.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded Operation Sindoor, emphasizing the unity displayed by the country following the military action. He highlighted the achievement of targets set by the Indian Army and praised the "Made in India" concept in the context of military strength.

Potential Implications

The discussion on Operation Sindoor in Parliament could have several implications:

• It could influence the future trajectory of India-Pakistan relations.
• It may lead to a review of India's counter-terrorism strategies.
• It could shape public opinion on the government's national security policies.
• It could also address the role of international actors, such as the United States, in mediating conflicts in the region.

The Monsoon session promises to be eventful, with the debate on Operation Sindoor potentially setting the tone for discussions on other critical issues facing the nation.