Operation Sindoor Targets Terror Camps Across the Border

India Strikes Back: Operation Sindoor Targets Terror Camps Across the Border

 In a powerful and precisely coordinated military operation code-named Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces launched air and missile strikes on terrorist infrastructure located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir late Monday night, May 6. The operation was carried out in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 Hindu pilgrims and injured dozens more.

24 precision strikes were executed within a 23-minute window, reportedly targeting nine key locations, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad, all known to harbor operatives of terror outfits such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

According to military sources, Rafale fighter jets were deployed with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs, enabling deep strikes with minimal collateral damage. The Indian Army and Navy reportedly supported the operation with logistical and surveillance coordination, though their involvement remains classified.

Initial reports from defense analysts suggest that over 70 militants were killed, and more than 60 were seriously injured, significantly hampering the operational strength of these terror networks.

Pakistan's Response
Pakistan, while confirming explosions in several regions, has termed the operation a "grave provocation" and claimed that five Indian aircraft were shot down, including three Rafale jets. Indian officials have not confirmed these losses but acknowledged that three aircraft were lost within Indian territory due to technical issues, pending investigation.

Pakistan also reported civilian casualties, claiming nine deaths and 38 injuries, a claim that India has neither confirmed nor denied.

Retaliatory Shelling
Shortly after the operation, Pakistan initiated artillery shelling across the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in the deaths of three Indian civilians in Poonch district and triggering further tensions along the border.

Government Speaks
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in a press briefing, stated:

"Operation Sindoor was a precise, limited, and non-escalatory mission. We targeted only terrorist facilities and avoided any Pakistani military installations."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a high-level security review meeting and has urged the nation to remain calm and united.

Nation on Alert
Security has been heightened in metro cities, with enhanced checks at airports and railway stations. Schools and universities in Kashmir have suspended classes and examinations for the week.

Global Reaction
The United Nations and global powers including the United States, China, and Russia have urged restraint and called for diplomatic engagement between India and Pakistan to prevent further escalation.

Operation Sindoor marks a significant moment in India’s counter-terror strategy—decisive yet measured. As the region holds its breath, the hope remains that justice for the Pahalgam victims does not spiral into a broader conflict.