Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held an emergency high-level meeting on Friday morning in New Delhi with Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and the chiefs of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This urgent meeting took place just hours after India successfully foiled a wave of missile and drone attacks launched by Pakistan. The situation marks one of the most serious military escalations between the two countries in recent times, following India's cross-border operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor.

Operation Sindoor: India’s Swift Retaliation to Pahalgam Terror Attack

Operation Sindoor was launched in retaliation to the brutal April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 civilians and injured dozens more. India responded by carrying out a powerful military strike on Thursday evening, targeting multiple terrorist launchpads and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. According to official sources, India launched 24 missiles in just 25 minutes, hitting nine different locations. Reports say the operation took out about 70 terrorists and wounded more than 60 others. It managed to hit several major terror command centers. The whole strike was quick, accurate, and hard to detect, all while trying to keep civilian casualties to a minimum.

Pakistan’s Counterattack with Drones and Missiles

Soon after this offensive, Pakistan launched a counterattack late Thursday night. Using a combination of drones and surface-to-surface missiles, the Pakistan Armed Forces targeted Indian military stations in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Punjab. In addition, key army bases in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur were also targeted. These attacks started around 8:30 PM and continued for several hours into the night. However, due to India’s robust air defense system, including the deployment of advanced S-400 missiles and other radar-guided anti-aircraft systems, most of the enemy drones and missiles were intercepted mid-air before they could cause damage.

Precautionary Blackouts Across Border States

Despite these defensive measures, several Indian cities, including Srinagar, Jammu, and parts of Punjab and Rajasthan, experienced temporary power outages during the night. These blackouts were precautionary steps taken by the authorities to reduce visibility for potential aerial attacks and to protect critical infrastructure.

India’s Strong Military Response to Cross-Border Aggression

Indian forces responded to the Pakistani aggression with immediate and powerful counterattacks. The Indian Army used anti-tank guided missiles and heavy artillery to destroy multiple Pakistani military posts along the Line of Control. Defence sources confirmed that several bunkers and ammunition depots used by Pakistan were completely destroyed. The retaliation was not only swift but also highly accurate, showcasing India’s preparedness and precision strike capabilities.

Rajnath Singh Reviews National Security Situation

During the morning meeting, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was briefed in full detail about the current situation along the border and India's military readiness. He praised the armed forces for their professionalism and bravery and instructed them to maintain maximum alertness across all border sectors. Singh also emphasized that India is committed to peace but will not tolerate any form of aggression or cross-border terrorism. He stated clearly that India reserves the right to respond with full force if provoked again.

Ceasefire Violations and Army’s Response

According to an official statement by the Indian Army, the Pakistan Armed Forces carried out multiple ceasefire violations across the LoC on the night of May 8 and 9. They used drones, mortars, and other munitions in an attempt to target Indian positions. However, all these attempts were effectively neutralized by the Indian Army, which gave a strong and proportionate reply. The statement reiterated that India will continue to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity at any cost.

Indus Waters Treaty Suspension Adds Diplomatic Pressure

Another key development that may have added to Pakistan’s aggressive behavior is India’s recent decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. This treaty, which regulates the sharing of river waters between India and Pakistan, was suspended shortly after the Pahalgam terror attack. The suspension sent a strong diplomatic signal and seems to have further strained relations between the two nations.

High Alert Across Border States

States along the western border, including Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, have been placed on high alert. Civil administration has been asked to activate emergency response protocols. Schools in vulnerable districts have been closed, and people living near the border have been advised to stay indoors at night. Emergency sirens were sounded in several towns, and mobile communication in some areas is being closely monitored. Leaves of government officials in critical roles have been cancelled, and disaster management teams are on standby.

International Community Urges Restraint

The situation has also drawn attention from the international community. The United Nations, the United States, and the European Union have expressed concern over the growing conflict and urged both sides to exercise restraint. However, significantly, no country has openly criticized India’s actions, a sign that global opinion may be shifting in India’s favor when it comes to countering terrorism.

Nation Unites Behind Armed Forces

Opposition political parties in India, including Congress, AAP, and TMC, have put their support behind the government. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated that in matters of national security, the country must stand united. He expressed solidarity with the armed forces and appreciated the government’s strong action.

India on High Alert, Prepared for Any Further Aggression

As of now, the situation remains tense but under control. Border areas continue to remain on high alert, and Indian armed forces are maintaining full combat readiness. The Defence Ministry has made it clear that India seeks peace, but any provocation will be met with a strong and decisive response. Rajnath Singh’s message is being seen as a warning not just to Pakistan, but to any force that dares challenge India’s sovereignty.