New Delhi: In a powerful response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, India has launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Under this meticulously planned operation, Indian security forces carried out precision strikes on nine terrorist camps. The action, described as highly limited and strategic, deliberately avoided Pakistani military installations, with India underscoring that the operation was focused exclusively on counter-terrorism.
Naming of Operation Sindoor carries profound significance
According to defence officials, missiles were used to target the terror infrastructure, conveying a clear and firm message: India is no longer willing to issue mere warnings but will take decisive retaliatory action against cross-border terrorism.
The symbolic naming of Operation Sindoor carries profound significance. When terrorists attacked Baisaran, Pahalgam, they consciously spared the lives of women. The operation’s name — derived from sindoor, the vermilion symbolising the sanctity of marriage in Indian culture — reflects India’s resolve. As officials put it: any attempt to violate the sanctity of a woman’s sindoor will henceforth be considered an act of war.
Both the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence emphasised that the operation adhered strictly to international law. No civilian installations were targeted, nor were any ordinary citizens harmed. The strikes were calibrated to eliminate only terror infrastructure, ensuring minimal collateral damage.
Sense of panic in Pakistan
Meanwhile, a sense of panic has gripped Pakistan. Several terrorist camps have reportedly been evacuated, and a high alert has been declared along the border. Pakistan has acknowledged the strikes and vowed retaliation at a time and place of its choosing.
Operation Sindoor marks India’s third major cross-border counter-terror operation on Pakistani soil, following the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes.