In the wake of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22nd, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists, India launched "Operation Sindoor" as a resolute response. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent address in Gujarat, affirmed India's unwavering stance against terrorism, stating that the nation could not remain silent after the brutal attack. He emphasized that the operation was not merely a military action but a reflection of India's collective resolve and values.
Operation Sindoor involved targeted strikes against terror infrastructure across the Line of Control (LoC). External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar informed a parliamentary consultative committee that Pakistan was alerted 30 minutes after the operation commenced, with the assurance that only terrorist hideouts were being targeted. According to reports, the operation, executed on the night of May 7th, focused on dismantling terrorist infrastructure and disabling terrorists likely to be sent across the border into India. Indian forces reportedly destroyed nine camps belonging to terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen, eliminating over 100 terrorists.
The Indian Army has released the first images from Operation Sindoor, showcasing the precision and effectiveness of the strikes. The name "Operation Sindoor" carries significant symbolism. Sindoor, or vermilion, is a traditional symbol of marriage for Hindu women. The Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the loss of life partners for many women, made the name particularly fitting, symbolizing justice served and the avenging of the lives lost.
Following Operation Sindoor, reports indicate that Pakistan has been on a shopping spree for military equipment, including drones and launchers, to bolster its defense capabilities. This includes the purchase of 30 Wing Loong unmanned aerial vehicles from China and the renewal of a defense agreement with a Turkish company for acquiring more attack drones. Pakistan is also enhancing surveillance in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and border areas with Chinese systems.
Prime Minister Modi had given the armed forces complete operational freedom to decide on the mode, targets, and timing of India's response after the Pahalgam attack. He stated that it is India's national resolve to deal a crushing blow to terrorism. In the aftermath of the attack, India also announced diplomatic measures against Pakistan, including the cancellation of visas to Pakistani nationals and putting the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance.
Operation Sindoor has had a multifaceted impact, both domestically and internationally. While India has projected a strong message against terrorism and demonstrated its military capabilities, Pakistan has accused India of targeting civilians and has sought to bolster its defense capabilities. The operation and its aftermath have led to heightened tensions between the two countries, even resulting in increased ceasefire violations along the LoC.
