Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday informed Parliament that more than 100 terrorists, including their trainers and handlers, were eliminated in India’s precision military strikes under Operation Sindoor in May. The operation was launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.
Initiating a discussion in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon Session, Singh said the Indian Armed Forces had carried out “well-coordinated and targeted strikes” on nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These sites were linked to terror outfits such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen.
“I speak with caution so as not to misstate the numbers — but I can confirm that over 100 terrorists and their associates were eliminated,” Singh said. “These terror groups receive open support from Pakistan’s Army and ISI,” he added.
The Defence Minister clarified that the operation was paused in May after India achieved both its political and military objectives. “We were under no pressure to halt. The decision was ours, and we chose to pause only after accomplishing what we set out to do,” he said.
Calling Operation Sindoor a “historic” and “decisive” military response, Singh emphasized that it demonstrated India’s unwavering policy against terrorism. “It wasn’t merely a military campaign. It reflected our commitment to sovereignty, identity, and our responsibility to Indian citizens,” he told the House.
Singh said the strikes were preceded by a thorough assessment by the armed forces to ensure maximum impact with minimal collateral damage. “We had several operational options, but chose one that would inflict the most damage to terror elements while sparing civilian lives,” he noted.
He paid tribute to the armed forces, stating, “On behalf of the Parliament, I salute our brave soldiers who are always prepared to sacrifice for the nation.”
Earlier in the day, the Lok Sabha was adjourned multiple times due to opposition protests before the minister’s statement.
