Operation Sindoor: India’s Precision Strikes on 9 Terrorist Sites in Pakistan & PoK
Srinagar 07 May 2025: In a bold and strategic military operation, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was carried out by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, striking infrastructure linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen (HM).
The strikes were conducted two weeks after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. India’s Ministry of Defence described the operation as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory”, deliberately avoiding Pakistani military installations.
The Pahalgam Attack: The Trigger Behind Operation Sindoor
On April 22, heavily armed terrorists launched an indiscriminate attack on civilians at Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, a popular tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack resulted in 26 deaths, including Indian civilians and one Nepali national.
Eyewitnesses reported that gunmen opened fire on unarmed tourists, causing widespread panic. Security forces responded swiftly, engaging the attackers in a gunfight. However, by the time reinforcements arrived, the assailants had escaped into the dense forests nearby.
The attack was later linked to Pakistan-based terror groups, prompting India to take decisive military action.
List of 9 Terrorist Sites Targeted in Operation Sindoor
The strikes focused on locations known for training militants, planning attacks, and providing logistical support. Intelligence reports indicated that the Pakistani Army and ISI facilitated terrorist activities at these camps, offering weapons, funding, and operational guidance.
Targets in Pakistan
- Markaz Subhan Allah, Bahawalpur – Headquarters of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).
- Markaz Taiba, Muridke – A key Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) training facility.
- Sarjal, Tehra Kalan – A JeM operational base.
- Mehmoona Joya, Sialkot – A Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) training camp.
Targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK)
- Markaz Ahle Hadith, Barnala – A LeT recruitment center.
- Markaz Abbas, Kotli – A JeM hideout.
- Maskar Raheel Shahid, Kotli – A HM training facility.
- Shawai Nalla Camp, Muzaffarabad – A LeT launchpad.
- Syedna Bilal Camp, Muzaffarabad – A JeM operational site.
How These Sites Supported Terrorism
These locations were used for training militants, planning attacks, and providing logistical support. Intelligence reports indicated that the Pakistani Army and ISI facilitated terrorist activities at these camps, offering weapons, funding, and operational guidance.
Key Functions of These Terror Camps:
- Recruitment & Radicalization: Young men were indoctrinated and trained for jihad.
- Weapons Training: Camps provided combat training, including handling firearms and explosives.
- Operational Planning: Terrorists were trained in guerrilla warfare tactics and cross-border infiltration.
- Funding & Logistics: Camps received financial aid and logistical support from external sources.
India’s Strategic Approach
The strikes were precise, measured, and non-escalatory, deliberately avoiding Pakistani military installations. The operation aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure while maintaining regional stability.
Key Objectives of Operation Sindoor:
- Neutralizing Terrorist Infrastructure: Destroying camps used for planning attacks against India.
- Sending a Strong Message: Demonstrating India’s resolve to combat terrorism.
- Avoiding Escalation: Ensuring the operation remained focused on terror targets without provoking a wider conflict.
Pakistan’s Response & International Reactions
Pakistan’s military confirmed the strikes but downplayed their impact, claiming that three Pakistani citizens were killed and 12 injured.
Global Reactions:
- United States & European Union: Urged both nations to exercise restraint.
- China: Expressed concern over escalating tensions.
- United Nations: Called for diplomatic resolution to prevent further conflict.
Bottom-Line
Operation Sindoor marks a significant moment in India’s fight against terrorism. By targeting nine key terrorist sites, India has sent a strong message that cross-border terrorism will not be tolerated.
While the operation was carefully executed to avoid escalation, the geopolitical landscape remains tense. As India continues to strengthen its counter-terrorism strategies, the focus remains on ensuring national security and regional stability.
