Operation Sindoor Concluded After Achieving Objectives, Not External Pressure: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking in the Lok Sabha on Monday, categorically denied allegations that India ended Operation Sindoor due to external pressure. He asserted that the military mission was concluded only after fulfilling its political and strategic goals.
Singh clarified, “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.” He made these remarks during the official debate on the operation that captivated the nation earlier this year.
The Minister outlined Operation Sindoor as a targeted response focused on dismantling terrorist setups across the border, rather than acquiring territory. He stated, “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.”
Rajnath Singh disclosed that on May 10, the Indian Air Force executed successful strikes on several Pakistani airfields. Following these actions, Pakistan conceded defeat and proposed to cease hostilities. Singh noted, “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.”
Highlighting the capabilities of India’s defence systems, Singh remarked, “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.”
In response to criticism from the Opposition, Singh criticized their line of questioning. “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 commented.
He also urged the House to concentrate on outcomes significant to 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.
Singh concluded by reaffirming India’s right to self-defence and its preparedness to retaliate if provoked. He stated that Operation Sindoor showcased India’s determination and military precision without escalating into a broader conflict.
