Did the Indian Armed Forces Target Mosques During 'Operation Sindoor'?
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Synopsis
In a recent briefing, Indian military officials clarified their stance on secularism during 'Operation Sindoor', asserting that no mosques were harmed. This announcement came shortly after a ceasefire agreement with Pakistan. Explore the implications of this operation and the commitment to respecting places of worship across faiths.
Key Takeaways
- No mosques were targeted during 'Operation Sindoor'.
- Indian armed forces maintain secular values in their operations.
- The ceasefire was agreed upon shortly after US intervention.
- Military actions focused solely on terror assets.
- Commitment to pluralism and respect for all faiths was emphasized.
New Delhi, May 10 (NationPress) The Indian armed forces uphold the Constitution’s secular principles, and in light of this, they refrained from targeting any mosque during ‘Operation Sindoor’, the Defence Ministry confirmed on Saturday, shortly after reaching a ceasefire agreement with Pakistan.
During a press conference, Commodore Raghu Nair, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh – representing the three branches of the armed forces – refuted the false claims made by Pakistani military officials regarding the targeting of mosques in their country during Operation Sindoor.
“I want to clarify that no mosque was harmed during the operation,” stated Colonel Qureshi, who is herself a Muslim, in a briefing that conveyed a significant message about the nation's pluralism and empowerment of women.
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh reiterated the armed forces' commitment to secularism, stating, “The military holds immense respect for places of worship of all religions.”
She emphasized that no religious site was affected during the operation, asserting, “Only terror assets were targeted, with no military or civilian infrastructure harmed.”
Furthermore, Wing Commander Singh noted that India operates under a Zero Tolerance policy while avoiding wider conflict escalation.
Minutes after US President Donald Trump declared a “full and immediate ceasefire” between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that hostilities had ceased on land, air, and sea effective from 5 p.m. on Saturday.
“The Director General of Military Operations from Pakistan contacted his Indian counterpart at 1535 hours today, and it was agreed that both parties would halt all military actions effective from 1700 hours Indian Standard Time today,” Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated during a brief media session.
“Instructions have been issued on both sides to implement this agreement. The Directors General of Military Operations will reconvene on May 12 at 1200 hours,” the Foreign Secretary added.
Point of View
I emphasize that the Indian armed forces have consistently demonstrated their commitment to secularism and respect for all religions. The clarification provided during this briefing is crucial in countering misinformation and reaffirming the nation's dedication to pluralism.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor was a military operation conducted by Indian armed forces aimed at specific terror targets while adhering to principles of restraint and respect for civilian infrastructure.
Did any mosques get targeted during the operation?
According to the Indian Defence Ministry, no mosques were harmed during Operation Sindoor, reflecting the military's commitment to secular values.
What is India's Zero Tolerance doctrine?
India's Zero Tolerance doctrine refers to its strict policy against terrorism, ensuring that military actions are targeted and do not escalate into broader conflicts.
How did the ceasefire with Pakistan come about?
The ceasefire was announced shortly after a communication between the Directors General of Military Operations from both India and Pakistan, facilitated by US President Donald Trump's intervention.
Why is this briefing significant?
The briefing underscores the Indian armed forces' dedication to upholding secularism and combating misinformation in the context of military operations.
