In a joint press briefing on Sunday, India’s military provided a comprehensive look into Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7. The briefing, led by Director General Air Operations (DG Air Ops) Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti, presented missile impact videos showing the precision strikes that destroyed terrorist training camps in Bahawalpur and Muridke.
Precise Strikes, Major Casualties
The video footage revealed the devastating effects of the strikes, with the Indian military targeting nine terror hubs, resulting in the death of over 100 terrorists. Among those killed were high-value targets, including Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf, and Mudasir Ahmed, who were associated with significant terrorist operations.
Air Marshal Bharti displayed satellite images of the terror camps before and after the attack, emphasizing the precision maintained during the operation. The footage clearly demonstrated the strikes on two points at Muridke and four points at Bahawalpur, ensuring minimal collateral damage, as only terrorist-related infrastructure was targeted.
The Motivation Behind Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor was launched as a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The responsibility for the attack was claimed by The Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba. India’s military response was part of its broader strategy to punish those responsible for the attack and dismantle terror infrastructure operating in Pakistan.
Lt General Rajiv Ghai, Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), explained that the goal of Operation Sindoor was to send a clear message: India’s intolerance for terrorism. He noted that while the Indian military identified several terror sites, some of these locations had been vacated by militants who feared retribution. The strikes, he clarified, targeted only terrorists and avoided civilian casualties, marking a successful operation with minimal unintended consequences.
Pakistan’s Retaliation and the Escalation of Hostilities
In the wake of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan launched an immediate retaliation, violating the Line of Control (LoC) by sending drones and missiles into Indian territory. This led to civilian casualties on both sides, including damage to villages, Gurudwaras, and civilian infrastructure, causing loss of life. Despite the violations, India’s armed forces remained steadfast, with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Navy playing a pivotal role in the success of the operation.
Operational Success and India’s Tactical Advantage
The presentation showcased how India’s military managed to achieve total surprise, successfully identifying terror sites and conducting precision strikes. Major General SS Sharda, Additional Director General of Strategic Communication, emphasized that the images of the strikes confirmed the operation’s success, dispelling any doubts about its effectiveness.
As the hostilities between the two nations intensified, India’s military demonstrated its resolve to target and destroy terrorist infrastructure while maintaining a careful balance to avoid further civilian harm.
The Indian government has made it clear that any future terror-related provocations will be met with similar precision and determination, reinforcing India’s stance on national security and the fight against terrorism.
Conclusion
Operation Sindoor represents a significant step in India’s strategy to combat terrorism in the region. By showcasing the detailed videos and satellite images, the Indian military has provided transparency in its actions, assuring citizens of its commitment to ensuring security and safety. As tensions continue to rise along the borders, India’s military remains on high alert, ready to respond to any further provocations from across the border.
Sources By Agencies