Bharat: In a strong yet calibrated military response, India successfully repelled a major offensive by Pakistan on the night of May 7–8, following a clear warning that any attack on Indian military assets would invite a suitable counteraction.
During a press briefing on Operation Sindoor held on May 7, Indian defence officials had described the country's stance as "focused, measured, and non-escalatory." It was specifically emphasized that Indian retaliation would remain confined to military objectives and avoid unnecessary provocation — a principle India adhered to even amid growing hostilities.
However, in the early hours of May 8, Pakistan attempted a major escalation by launching coordinated drone and missile attacks on multiple Indian military locations across Northern and Western India. Key targets included Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj.
The Indian Air Defence and Integrated Counter-UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Grid swiftly responded, neutralizing the incoming threats. Debris from intercepted missiles and drones is being recovered from various impact sites, providing clear evidence of the Pakistani offensive.
In a proportionate and domain-specific counter-strike early this morning, the Indian Armed Forces targeted Pakistani Air Defence Radars and systems at several locations. Confirmed intelligence suggests that an air defence system in Lahore was successfully neutralized.
In a further bid to escalate tensions, Pakistan has intensified unprovoked mortar and heavy artillery fire across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, Poonch, Mendhar, and Rajouri sectors in Jammu and Kashmir. Tragically, sixteen civilians, including three women and five children, lost their lives in the indiscriminate shelling.
In response, the Indian Army was compelled to retaliate to silence Pakistani fire, upholding its commitment to defend Indian lives and territory.
The Indian Armed Forces have reiterated their commitment to non-escalation, affirming that peace will prevail only if Pakistan exercises restraint and refrains from targeting Indian military installations or civilian populations.(pr)