India’s retaliatory response to the Pakistan-sponsored terror attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, known as ‘Operation Sindoor,’ struck nine terror locations across the border in the early hours of Wednesday, eliminating both terrorists and their hideouts.
While ‘Operation Sindoor’ has resonated deeply with the families of the Pahalgam victims, a number of Army veterans have also expressed support for the operation, praising it as a fitting tribute to the widows who lost their husbands in the brutal attack.
Colonel Abhay Patvardhan (Retd), speaking exclusively to IANS, explained that the codename ‘Operation Sindoor’ was perfectly chosen to honor the victims and their families. He said, “The operation’s name honors the Pahalgam victims and their families by showing that the government does not just view casualties as numbers but also understands and respects their emotions and sentiments.”
Patvardhan further estimated that more than 250 terrorists might have been neutralized in the precision strikes, contrary to the reported figure of 60-70 terrorists. He remarked, “While media reports suggest that 60-70 terrorists were eliminated, I believe over 250 have been neutralized in this operation.”
The retired officer also speculated that the damage inflicted on the terrorists’ side would have been substantial, given the precision of the attack.
Brigadier Uday Kumar W Deshmukh, SM (Sena Medal), VSM (Retd.), also praised ‘Operation Sindoor’ and emphasized the resolve of the Indian Armed Forces. Speaking to IANS, he stated that the Indian forces would continue to tighten the noose around Pakistan if the nation, which he accused of sponsoring terrorism, does not change its ways.
He said, “The Line of Control (LoC) will remain active for some time. However, the Indian Armed Forces, among the best in the world, are more than capable of addressing any challenges that arise.”
Commenting on Pakistan’s possible response, Brigadier Deshmukh added, “Pakistan will likely launch a disinformation campaign and might even make nuclear threats. It’s certain that the Pakistani army will retaliate, but we are well-prepared to respond effectively.”
