In a bold military operation titled Operation Sindoor, India confirmed that its air force struck nine terror infrastructure sites located in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PoK) in the early hours of May 6, 2025. The action was taken in direct response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed the lives of 26 Indian civilians, including women and children.
Operation Sindoor
According to Indian defense officials, the operation was:
- Executed by Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Mirage 2000 fighter jets.
- Targeted Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) facilities, including training camps, weapons depots, and communication nodes.
- Supported by real-time drone surveillance and satellite intelligence, ensuring minimal collateral damage.
The strikes occurred around 3:45 AM IST, lasting approximately 22 minutes.
Symbolism of the Name
The codename “Sindoor” symbolizes sacrifice and sanctity in Indian tradition, especially among married women. Defense analysts say the name signifies a “protective strike” meant to avenge the bloodshed of innocents.
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes, labeling them an “act of war.” Islamabad claims:
- Eight civilians were killed, including a child.
- 38 others were injured, mostly in the Bagh and Kotli districts of PoK.
- Its forces responded with anti-aircraft fire and claimed to have downed five Indian aircraft, though India denies any losses.
