In a significant address to the Lok Sabha, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh categorically dismissed allegations suggesting that India had called off Operation Sindoor due to external pressures. He emphasized that the military operation concluded only after successfully meeting its predefined political and strategic objectives.
“India stopped the operation because all the political and military objectives were achieved beforehand. Therefore, to say that the operation was halted due to any pressure is completely wrong,” Singh stated, initiating a debate that has captured national attention since the operation was first launched.
Describing Operation Sindoor as a targeted initiative aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure beyond the borders, Singh clarified that territorial acquisition was not its objective. “Crossing the border or capturing territory there was not the objective of Operation Sindoor. The aim of launching the operation was to eliminate those terror nurseries that Pakistan had nurtured for many years,” he remarked.
Singh disclosed that on May 10, the Indian Air Force executed successful strikes on multiple airfields in Pakistan. Following these military actions, he noted that Pakistan acknowledged its defeat and signaled a willingness to cease hostilities. However, he cautioned that the operation was only put on hold. “This offer was accepted with the caveat that this operation has only been paused. If any misadventure occurs from Pakistan’s side in the future, this operation will be resumed,” Singh asserted.
Emphasizing the capabilities of India’s defense systems, he highlighted their effectiveness against Pakistani aggression: “Our Air Defence system, Counter-Drone system, and electronic equipment completely foiled Pakistan’s attacks. Pakistan could not hit any of our targets, and none of our important assets were damaged.”
Responding to critiques from the Opposition, Singh expressed frustration at their focus on the number of Indian aircraft allegedly downed during the operation. “Few members of the Opposition have been asking how many of our aircraft were shot down? I feel their question does not adequately represent our national sentiments. They have not asked how many enemy aircraft our Armed Forces shot down,” he pointed out.
He urged Parliament to concentrate on crucial outcomes that resonate with the public. “If you must ask a question, ask this: Were any of our brave soldiers harmed in this operation? The answer is, no. None of our soldiers were harmed. Did we destroy terrorist bases? Yes, we did,” he emphasized.
In closing, Singh reiterated India’s right to self-defense, signaling the nation’s readiness to act if provoked again. Operation Sindoor, he concluded, has showcased India’s determination and military precision while preventing the escalation of tensions into a larger conflict.
