The Moradabad Municipal Corporation has inaugurated a striking selfie point at Peelikothi Square, designed around the theme of Operation Sindoor, a move aimed at encouraging patriotic spirit—especially among young citizens. This newly unveiled installation includes a towering cutout of Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, proudly bearing the message: “India is proud of its heroes.”
To boost the tribute’s visual appeal, the civic authorities have installed striking posters illustrating powerful scenes from Operation Sindoor at prominent public spots, such as outside the Circuit House on Delhi Road and along key road dividers. These efforts aim to visually honor the bravery and resilience of India’s defense forces.
Municipal Commissioner Divyanshu Patel described the initiative as a “symbol of homage” to the valor displayed during Operation Sindoor, which was launched in retaliation to a brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The April 22 attack claimed 26 lives—mostly tourists—gunned down in a horrific meadow ambush. The Indian military’s counter-offensive struck back at terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, earning widespread public support. In tribute, several families even named their newborns ‘Sindoor’ in Kushinagar and Ayodhya.
Nevertheless, the memorial site has not been without its share of controversy. Three young visitors were briefly detained by local police following a complaint by Commissioner Patel, who alleged they had issued him death threats. The youths, on the other hand, claimed that they were taking selfies when security guards seized their phones and demanded a bribe of $60 (₹5,000 approx). When they protested, they say the commissioner falsely accused them of being under the influence and lodged a police complaint.
Police officials later clarified that the trio was sober and released them without charges. Despite the incident, the selfie point remains a visually powerful tribute to national pride and military sacrifice, drawing both admiration and scrutiny as it continues to capture public attention.
