Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) will one day recognize themselves as Indians. Speaking during a parliamentary discussion on ‘Operation Sindoor’ in Rajya Sabha, Singh underscored India’s unwavering resolve to combat terrorism and safeguard national security.
Singh described ‘Operation Sindoor’ as a decisive act of self-defense, not aggression, aimed at neutralizing terrorist threats. He highlighted the operation’s success in targeting nine terror camps, including those run by Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen, while ensuring no harm came to Pakistani civilians. “Our strikes were precise, sending a clear message to Pakistan and the global community,” he stated.
The minister revealed that Pakistan attempted retaliatory attacks using missiles and drones but failed to inflict any damage on Indian targets. “Every attempt was thwarted. No Indian installation was hit,” Singh affirmed, praising the armed forces’ precision and coordination.
Addressing ‘Operation Mahadev’ in Srinagar, Singh noted that intelligence-driven action led to the elimination of three terrorists responsible for the April 22 Pahalgam attack. “Our forces delivered justice. We act on our commitments,” he said with conviction.
Singh urged the Opposition to join in saluting the bravery of Indian soldiers, emphasizing that no Indian soldier was lost in the operation. “The nation should take pride in our forces’ professionalism,” he declared.
Responding to claims of mediation by US President Donald Trump, Singh clarified that Pakistan sought a ceasefire on May 10 following India’s offensive. “We agreed, but with a condition: any further terror attack will trigger the resumption of ‘Operation Sindoor.’ The operation remains active,” he asserted.
Singh described ‘Operation Sindoor’ as a pivotal moment in India’s security policy, reinforcing the country’s global image as a nation that will not tolerate threats. “The people of PoK will one day affirm, ‘We are Indians,’” he reiterated.
Concluding his address, Singh emphasized India’s commitment to peace but issued a stern warning: “Our forces have full operational freedom, and we are ready to respond to any aggression, whether on land or sea.”
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday addressed Parliament to confirm that the three terrorists behind the gruesome April 22 Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, have been neutralised. The decisive strike, carried out under “Operation Mahadev,” was a joint effort by the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Shah declared that forensic evidence, ballistic matching, and the identification of the terrorists by those who had harboured them have confirmed their role in the Pahalgam massacre. He further slammed the Opposition for not standing united in celebrating the success of Indian security forces, raising questions about their political motivations.