In early May 2025, as a controversial figure known for alleged links to extremist groups was appointed to a key ministerial post in Pakistan, India launched Operation Sindoor-a series of precision missile strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This was not mere coincidence but a calculated move, sending a clear signal about India’s zero-tolerance policy towards cross-border terrorism and state complicity.
The immediate trigger for Operation Sindoor was the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, including Indian tourists and one Nepali citizen. The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. India accused Pakistan of harboring and enabling these groups, while Pakistan denied involvement and called for an impartial investigation.
Operation Sindoor was executed in the early hours, with Indian armed forces launching 24 precision missile strikes on nine terror hubs, including Bahawalpur (Jaish-e-Mohammed HQ) and Muridke (Lashkar-e-Taiba HQ). These sites were not random-they were the very locations where major attacks against India, including the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, were orchestrated.
Symbolism: The operation’s name, “Sindoor,” references the red holy powder worn by married Hindu women, symbolizing sacrifice and loss-echoing the widows created by terror attacks.
Message: By striking as a new minister took office in Pakistan, India underscored its resolve to act against terror infrastructure, regardless of political changes across the border.
The timing of Operation Sindoor was deliberate:
Strategic Signaling: India wanted to highlight that changes in Pakistan’s political leadership-especially if linked to extremist sympathies-would not deter or delay counter-terror operations.
Deterrence: The strikes served as a warning to both Pakistan’s political and military establishments that India would hold all actors accountable for cross-border terrorism, regardless of who holds office.
Domestic Assurance: Prime Minister Modi had vowed justice for the Pahalgam victims, promising to pursue those responsible “to the ends of the earth”. The operation reinforced this commitment to the Indian public.
Pakistan responded with strong condemnation, claiming civilian casualties and vowing retaliation. The strikes also coincided with heightened military readiness and a promise from Islamabad to respond at a time of its choosing, further escalating tensions.