New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday lauded the Indian Armed Forces for the swift and effective execution of Operation Sindoor, calling it a strong and justified response to decades of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Speaking at the Border Security Force (BSF) Investiture Ceremony during the Rustamji Memorial Lecture, Shah sharply criticized Pakistan for its continued support of terror groups, including its army’s reported involvement in the funerals of slain terrorists.
“Pakistan stands exposed before the world. Their army officers were seen at the funerals of known terrorists — carrying coffins and offering prayers. This makes their support undeniable,” Shah said, underlining the depth of state involvement in terrorism.
Referring to the Pahalgam attack on April 22, where 26 innocent civilians were killed by terrorists allegedly backed by Pakistan, Shah said India had faced cross-border terrorism for decades but had now responded with unprecedented strength. “Earlier, many major attacks went unanswered. But under Prime Minister Modi’s decisive leadership, we responded proportionately and forcefully,” he asserted.
Shah attributed the success of Operation Sindoor to a seamless blend of strong political leadership, precise intelligence, and the armed forces’ unmatched execution. “This operation was a product of the Prime Minister’s strong will, intelligence agencies’ accuracy, and the military’s firepower. When all three come together, the outcome is decisive,” he said.
He emphasized that India had taken careful and calculated action, striking only terror infrastructure. “We destroyed nine terrorist bases, including two headquarters, in mere minutes — but we deliberately avoided targeting any Pakistani military installations or airbases. Our focus was clear: to eliminate those who had committed crimes on Indian soil,” he noted.
The Home Minister also detailed Pakistan’s military response following India’s targeted strikes on May 7 and the subsequent four-day military exchange, which ended in a ceasefire on May 10. “Pakistan mistook our counterterrorism operation as an attack on its sovereignty and responded by targeting Indian military and civilian areas. But our forces gave a befitting reply that was acknowledged and respected globally,” he said.
Further intensifying his critique, Shah said, “When terror camps were hit, it was the Pakistani Army that retaliated — not just militants. And when terrorist leaders were buried, Pakistani Army officers were there, participating actively. What more proof does the world need of their complicity?”
Paying tribute to the BSF, Shah saluted the bravery and sacrifice of the over 2,000 personnel who have laid down their lives in service from 1965 to 2025. “On behalf of a grateful nation, I salute all the brave hearts who embraced martyrdom in the line of duty,” he said.
He also reminded Bangladesh of the pivotal role played by the BSF in its liberation, asserting, “Bangladesh should never forget the contribution of the BSF in its creation.”
In closing, Shah praised the BSF as a shining example of patriotism and resilience. “The BSF has proved that with courage and dedication, any challenge can be overcome. It is one of the finest forces in the world today.
