He made these remarks while opening a 16-hour debate in Lok Sabha, defending the government's decision and strongly criticising the Opposition for asking the “wrong questions.”

Why Was Operation Sindoor Launched?

Operation Sindoor was carried out on May 7, in direct response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam (Jammu and Kashmir) on April 22, which killed 26 people, including civilians and security personnel.

The strike targeted nine major terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan, which, according to Singh, were completely destroyed.

"We chose a method that caused maximum damage to terror camps and no harm to civilians," Singh said in Parliament.

What Happened During the Operation?

1. Date: May 7, 2025
2. Duration: 22 minutes
3. Targets: Chaklala, Sargodha, Rafiqui, Rahim Yar Khan, Jacobabad (terror hubs)
4. Outcome: Over 100 terrorists killed, 9 terror camps destroyed
5. Civilian Casualties: None
6. Indian Armed Forces Casualties: None
7. Important Defence Assets: Completely safe

Singh also said the operation was non-escalatory, meaning it was not meant to provoke war, but to send a clear message against terrorism.

Pakistan’s Response and Ceasefire

After India’s strike, Pakistan retaliated by firing across the Line of Control (LoC) and using drones and UAVs to target Indian military equipment.

This Pakistani shelling resulted in the deaths of at least 22 Indian civilians and 8 defence personnel.

However, on May 10, both countries reached an understanding to stop firing.

India’s DGMO informed Pakistan’s DGMO that the strike was targeted only at terrorist camps and was not an act of aggression.

Opposition Questions & Defence Minister’s Response

Opposition leaders raised questions in Parliament, asking whether any Indian aircraft were lost in the operation.

Singh reacted strongly, saying:

“These are not the questions that reflect national sentiment. Instead, ask if India destroyed terror camps. The answer is yes.”

He continued:

“You don't ask how many pencils broke during an exam. What matters is — did we pass? India passed.”

Singh said that no Indian aircraft were downed and no soldiers were lost — yet, India achieved its military goals.

He also urged the Opposition to show unity and appreciation for the armed forces:

“At least now, clap your hands to praise our jawans.”

“We Are the Land of Buddha, Not of Yuddha”

While defending India's firm but restrained response, Singh added:

“India is the land of Gautam Buddha, not of Yuddha (war). But if provoked, we know how to reply.”

He even quoted poet-saint Tulsidas, saying:

"Yuddh aur Prit barabari walonj se karni chahiye”— One should engage in war or love only with equals.

What’s Next?

Rajnath Singh made it clear that if Pakistan dares to repeat such misadventures again, Operation Sindoor will be reactivated.

“Pakistan stopped after our strike. They understood India’s resolve. But if needed, our forces are ready.”

Key Takeaways

1. Operation Sindoor was a calculated and precise military action.
2. India neutralised over 100 terrorists and destroyed major camps.
3. No Indian soldiers were lost during the operation.
4. The opposition was criticised for focusing on aircraft counts, not results.
5. India and Pakistan agreed to halt firing after four days of conflict.