Rajnath Singh slams Opposition for focusing on Indian jets downed, not how many enemy aircraft shot

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking in the Lok Sabha during the monsoon session on Monday, criticised Opposition members for questioning the outcome of Operation Sindoor, which was carried out after the Pahalgam terror attack. He said the Opposition asked how many Indian aircraft were shot down but did not ask how many enemy aircraft were brought down. He added that their questions did not represent national sentiment.

Singh stated that the Opposition should have instead asked whether terrorist bases were destroyed. “If they must ask a question, it should be whether India destroyed terrorist bases, and the answer to that is, yes,” he said. He further added, “Were terror heads destroyed? Yes. Were any of our brave soldiers harmed in this operation? The answer is, no, none of our soldiers were harmed.”

He said Operation Sindoor successfully targeted nine terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Singh mentioned that over 100 terrorists were neutralised. The targeted areas included Chaklala, Sargodha, Rafiqui, Rahim Yaar Khan, Jacobabad and other locations. He said the Indian forces carried out the strikes with precision and effectiveness.

The Defence Minister said Pakistan failed to cause any damage to India during its attempted response. “Our defence systems, counter drone systems, and electronic equipment completely foiled Pakistan's attack. Pakistan could not hit any of the targets, and no important asset was damaged,” Singh said. He also added, “I commend the brave Indian armed forces, who put water on each plan of the enemies.”

He urged the Opposition to show support for the armed forces. “To the Opposition too, at least now thump your hands to praise the armed forces,” Singh said. Operation Sindoor was launched in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. The operation concluded on May 7, and a ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan was reached on May 10.