A high-voltage debate unfolded in the Lok Sabha as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the House on the recently concluded Operation Sindoor, revealing key details of the military action and sending a strong message to both Pakistan and the Opposition. The operation, he said, was conducted with surgical precision, achieved its pre-decided objectives, and was launched purely in self-defence.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju earlier urged the Opposition not to derail the discussion. “The Opposition should not attempt to disturb the discussion on Operation Sindoor, and let it happen,” Rijiju said, underscoring the gravity of the issue.
Here are the key highlights from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s statement in Parliament:
Tribute to Martyrs:
“I pay my tributes to the brave soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the nation,” Singh said, setting a respectful tone.
Precision Strikes Post-Pahalgam Attack:
“Soon after the Pahalgam terror attack, our Armed Forces took immediate action and destroyed nine terrorist infrastructure sites with precision strikes. These locations were hubs for over 100 terrorists, handlers, and trainers, mostly linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.”
Operation Concluded in 22 Minutes:
“This was a well-coordinated and swift operation. The entire mission was concluded within 22 minutes,” Singh noted.
Air Defence Success Against Pakistan’s Attack:
“On May 10, 2025, at 1:30 AM, Pakistan launched a large-scale attack using missiles, drones, and rockets. Our S-400 systems, Akash missiles, air defence guns, and electronic warfare tools completely foiled the assault. None of India’s key assets were damaged.”
No Territorial Ambition:
“Capturing territory was never the objective of Operation Sindoor. Our sole aim was to eliminate the terror nurseries that Pakistan has been nurturing for years,” Singh clarified.
Pakistan Requested Ceasefire:
“When the Indian Air Force struck hard at multiple airfields in Pakistan, they admitted defeat and approached our DGMO to cease hostilities. We agreed — but let me make it clear: this operation is only paused, not ended. If Pakistan dares again, we will resume it without hesitation.”
No External Pressure Behind the Pause:
“Claims that India halted the operation under international pressure are baseless and absolutely wrong. India stopped the action because our military and political objectives had been achieved,” he added.
Confidence in India's Defence Preparedness:
“Our counter-drone systems and air defences stood strong. Pakistan couldn’t hit a single strategic target. I am proud to say that every attack was foiled.”
Rajnath Singh ended his address by reaffirming that India’s actions were purely retaliatory and defensive. “In my political life, I have always tried never to speak lies,” he said, in a pointed remark to Opposition leaders who questioned the government’s version of events.
