Operation Sindoor: On May 7, 2025, India carried out Operation Sindoor, a major military offensive aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This operation was launched in response to a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, including 25 Indian tourists and one Nepalese national. The attack was attributed to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a Pakistan-based terrorist organization.
Background of the Pahalgam Attack
Since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, the Pahalgam attack was one of the most horrific acts of violence against civilians in India. The assailants targeted a group of tourists, leading to widespread condemnation and a demand for decisive action against the perpetrators. India accused Pakistan of harboring and supporting terrorist groups responsible for such attacks, a claim that Pakistan has consistently denied.
Execution of Operation Sindoor
With a unified approach, the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force executed Operation Sindoor with remarkable precision. Over a span of 25 minutes, Indian forces launched 24 missiles targeting nine identified terrorist camps across Pakistan and PoK. The operation aimed to dismantle the infrastructure of terrorist organizations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen.
Targets and Outcomes
The nine targeted locations included:
- Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur
- Markaz Taiba in Muridke
- Sarjal/Tehra Kalan
- Mehmoona Joya Facility in Sialkot
- Markaz Ahle Hadith Barnala in Bhimber
- Markaz Abbas in Kotli
- Maskar Raheel Shahid in Kotli District
- Shawai Nallah Camp in Muzaffarabad
- Markaz Syedna Bilal
These sites were believed to be training and operational centers for terrorist activities against India.
One of the major results of the operation was the reported death of Abdul Rauf Azhar, the brother of Masood Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed, who played a significant role in the 1999 Kandahar hijacking and various other terrorist activities.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan strongly criticized the strikes, calling them a violation of its sovereignty and a hostile act. The Pakistani military claimed to have downed several Indian aircraft and vowed to retaliate. Subsequent reports indicated that Pakistan launched its own strikes, leading to further casualties on both sides.
International Reactions
The escalating tensions between the two nuclear-capable nations raised international alarm. The United Nations, the United States, China, and Russia, among others, urged both countries to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Domestic Measures in India
In anticipation of potential retaliatory actions, India heightened security across its borders and major cities. Mock drills were conducted in various districts to prepare for any emergencies. The government also ensured the readiness of civil defense mechanisms and urged citizens to remain vigilant.
Conclusion
Operation Sindoor marked a major change in India’s approach to counter-terrorism, focusing on taking proactive action against potential threats. Although the operation demonstrated India’s military strength and determination, it also highlighted the delicate state of peace in the region. The international community’s call for restraint highlighted the importance of diplomatic engagement to address underlying issues and prevent further escalations.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor is a military operation carried out by India on May 7, 2025, targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). It was a direct response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 26 civilians.
Why was Operation Sindoor launched?
The operation was launched in retaliation for the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 25 Indian tourists and one Nepalese national were killed. The attack was attributed to the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Why is it called “Operation Sindoor”?
The operation’s name, “Sindoor” (which traditionally symbolizes sacrifice and commitment in Indian culture), may have been chosen to evoke emotional resonance and reflect the gravity of the civilian loss in the Pahalgam attack. However, the government has not officially stated the reason behind the codename.
Read more:
The 2025 Pahalgam Terror Attack: A Major Security Flashpoint
