'India's 'Operation Sindoor' Targets Terrorist Infrastructure, Not Civilian Areas': Vikram Misri

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The Ministry of External Affairs held a press conference for the second consecutive day, where Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, along with Colonel Sofia Kureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, provided updates on India's military operations.

Pakistan's Claims of Damaging Indian Military Installations Denied

Colonel Sofia Kureshi stated that Pakistan had attempted to attack 15 Indian military installations, which were successfully thwarted. In response, India targeted terrorist camps in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The Foreign Secretary emphasized that India's actions were limited to targeting terrorist infrastructure and not military installations.

Evidence of Pakistan's Involvement with Terrorists Presented

Foreign Secretary Misri presented photographs of terrorists wrapped in Pakistani flags and officials posing with them, contradicting Pakistan's claims of civilian casualties. He questioned why Pakistani officials would be photographed with terrorists if only civilians were killed.Misri expressed skepticism about Pakistan's willingness to cooperate in joint investigations, citing the example of the Pathankot attack. Despite India providing substantial evidence, Pakistan failed to take concrete action, leading India to question the efficacy of such collaborations. The Foreign Secretary underscored Pakistan's role as a hub of global terrorism, responsible for spreading terrorism in India and beyond. He highlighted that Pakistan's own ministers have acknowledged the presence of terrorists within the country.

India's Response Limited to Targeting Terrorist Camps

Misri clarified that India's recent military actions were specifically aimed at terrorist camps in response to the Pulwama attack. He reiterated that India's objective was not to escalate tensions but to address the terrorist threat.

Information Shared with the United Nations

India has shared details about the terrorist group The Resistance Front (TRF) with the United Nations, Misri informed. Notably, Pakistan objected to the mention of TRF's name in the UN Security Council, underscoring its reluctance to acknowledge the terrorist activities emanating from its territory.

Background on Recent Hostilities

Pakistan attempted to attack India with drones and missiles on May 7, which were successfully intercepted by India's air defense systems. In response, Indian forces targeted terrorist camps in PoK, leading to heightened tensions between the two nations.

India's Stance on the Indus Waters Treaty

Foreign Secretary Misri stated that India has been a consistent upholder of the Indus Waters Treaty for 65 years. However, Pakistan's actions have led to difficulties in implementing the treaty, and India has decided to re-evaluate its stance.

The press conference highlighted the ongoing security challenges in the region and the complex dynamics of India-Pakistan relations, particularly concerning terrorism and cross-border attacks.