 Early Times Report
Jammu, May 20: In response to Pakistan’s unprovoked shelling that devastated Poonch town and claimed 13 civilian lives, the Indian Army launched a swift and strategic counteroffensive under Operation Sindoor. Brigadier Mudit Mahajan, Commander of the Poonch Brigade, revealed during a media interaction that the Army inflicted heavy casualties on enemy forces and struck key terror hideouts across the Line of Control (LoC), particularly south of the Pir Panjal range.
Of the nine aerial strikes carried out under the operation, seven originated from this sector, showcasing the Indian Army’s precision, preparedness, and unwavering resolve. While the operation currently remains suspended, it is far from over. The Army remains on high alert amid persistent threats, including drone swarm incursions. The scale of civilian casualties and infrastructural damage underscores the sheer brutality of Pakistan’s aggression.
Brigadier Mahajan emphasized that the Indian Army responded effectively and forcefully after Pakistan targeted civilian populations in Poonch and nearby areas on May 7.
“In sum, the Pakistani Army’s losses extended beyond casualties—they suffered a loss of morale and initiative. They have lost face in the eyes of their own nation. So far, intelligence inputs suggest significant fatal and non-fatal casualties inflicted on the enemy,” he said.
He also noted that casualty numbers are still being verified and updated as intelligence agencies continue to corroborate incoming reports.
“Operation Sindoor has not concluded; it is temporarily on hold. The Of the nine aerial strikes carried out under the 'Operation Sindoor,' seven originated from Poonch sector.
While the 'Operation Sindoor' currently remains suspended, it is far from over.
The scale of civilian casualties and infrastructural damage underscores the sheer brutality of Pak's aggression.
The Pakistani Army’s losses extended beyond casualties—they suffered a loss of morale and initiative.
Detailing the conduct of operations in this region of Jammu and Kashmir, Brigadier Mahajan said the Poonch Brigade played a central role in repelling Pakistan’s aggression across the LoC.
“We didn’t wait to react—we prepared to respond. In that sense, I would say the Poonch Brigade was not merely a participant in Operation Sindoor; it was its very heart,” he remarked.
Referring to the Pakistan-sponsored terror strike at Pahalgam, Brigadier Mahajan said it was met with a well-calibrated military response focused initially on terrorist infrastructure.
“The Army struck with unmatched precision and purpose—six of the nine key terrorist targets were located opposite Poonch, Rajouri, and Akhnoor. All were effectively neutralized that same night,” he noted.
He further clarified that Pakistan’s military infrastructure was only targeted after they began indiscriminately attacking civilian areas.
“Only when the Pakistan Army escalated the conflict by shelling civilian zones did we shift to targeting their military assets,” he explained.
He also praised the Army Air Defence units, stating, “When the enemy introduced the threat of drone swarms, it was our Air Defence that rose as a shining shield—displaying exceptional skill, coordination, and resilience in intercepting every aerial threat, ensuring the safety of our troops and territory with unwavering vigilance and courage.” |
