Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday declared that India halted Operation Sindoor voluntarily and on its own terms, asserting the country's readiness for a prolonged conflict with Pakistan. He strongly criticized Pakistan, labeling it the epicentre of international terrorism.
Operation Sindoor: A Voluntary Halt
Addressing the National Security Summit 2.0, Singh explained, 'During Operation Sindoor, we precisely targeted those who had attacked us. And I want to clarify here again that we didn't stop this operation because our capabilities had diminished. We stopped it voluntarily, on our own terms, and if necessary, we were fully prepared for a long war.'
He emphasized that India maintains a robust surge capacity, stating, 'We also had surge capacity, the ability to expand our capabilities in times of sudden need. Not only did we have it, but we still have it, and it's even more robust than before. Therefore, I don't think there's any need to say anything more.'
India's Stance on Terrorism
Singh underscored India's evolving position, saying, 'India is telling the world that there will be no distinction between terrorism and its sponsors.' He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and the government's zero-tolerance approach, noting that India did not succumb to nuclear threats. 'Although we were even threatened with a nuclear attack during that time, we didn't fall for that bluff. We dismissed those threats, paid no heed, and did what was necessary in the national interest,' he said.
Operation Sindoor as a Milestone
Recalling the operation, Singh described it as a turning point in India's strategic posture. 'It's been almost a year since Operation Sindoor, and our Operation Sindoor is also a symbol of this new world order,' he said. 'It was a turning point that sent a message to the entire world that India is no longer the one that adheres to the old way of thinking, where terrorist attacks occur on our soil, we merely issue diplomatic statements.'
The defence minister outlined three dimensions of terrorism: operational, ideological, and political, stressing the need to address all of them. 'Terrorism is not just an anti-national act, it has multi-dimensions, and terrorism can only be dealt with if we tackle it in all its three dimensions,' he said. Using a metaphor, he added, 'The ideological nourishment and political patronage of terrorism is the nectar in Ravana's navel... I believe it is essential to dry up this navel that gives life to terrorism.'
Sharp Dig at Pakistan
Taking a sharp dig at Pakistan, Singh said the country continues to support terrorism. 'Today, India is known worldwide for its Information Technology, while Pakistan is considered the epicentre of other IT, i.e., International Terrorism,' he said.
Operation Sindoor Background
Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. Indian armed forces carried out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, destroying nine key launchpads. Pakistan responded with drone attacks and shelling, triggering a four-day military confrontation. India retaliated with strikes targeting radar installations in Lahore and near Gujranwala. The conflict de-escalated after Pakistan's Director General of Military Operations contacted his Indian counterpart, leading to a ceasefire agreement on May 10.
