Recent events have escalated tensions between India and Pakistan following military operation. On May 7, 2025, the Indian armed forces executed a high-stakes counterterror operation named ‘Operation Sindoor’. This operation targeted nine terrorist facilities within Pakistan, focusing on groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The strikes are among the most extensive cross-border actions since the Balakot airstrikes in 2019. Pakistan confirmed that multiple sites were hit, including known extremist hubs.
Context of the Operation
The operation was a response to ongoing terrorist threats originating from Pakistan. Jaish-e-Mohammed has been implicated in numerous attacks on Indian soil. The targeted locations included Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muridke, all for their links to terrorist activities. Bahawalpur, in particular, is known as the operational headquarters for JeM, housing a training facility disguised as a religious seminary.
Jaish-e-Mohammed – Overview
JeM was founded in 2000 by Maulana Masood Azhar after his release from Indian custody. The group aims to integrate Kashmir into Pakistan through violent means. Despite being banned in 2002, JeM continues to operate with support from the Pakistani military and intelligence services. Azhar’s leadership has diminished due to illness, with his brother now overseeing operations.
Notable Terror Attacks
JeM has orchestrated several high-profile attacks against India. These include the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament and the 2019 Pulwama attack, which resulted in the deaths of 40 Indian security personnel. Such incidents have prompted India to conduct retaliatory strikes, including the recent Operation Sindoor.
Details of the Strikes
The operation involved high-precision missile strikes on multiple terror sites. The Government of India stated that the targets selected were focused and measured, aimed at avoiding escalation. The strikes were part of a broader strategy to hold accountable those responsible for terrorist activities against India.
International and Domestic Reactions
The operation has drawn varied responses. While some international observers call for restraint, the Government of India insists on its commitment to national security. The military action was preceded by diplomatic efforts, including military drills along the border, signalling India’s readiness to respond to threats.
Future Implications
The operation signifies a shift in India’s counterterror strategy, moving towards more direct and aggressive actions against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. This could lead to further escalations in military tensions between the two nations, impacting regional stability.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of cross-border terrorism on India-Pakistan relations.
- What are the strategic goals of Jaish-e-Mohammed? Discuss its historical context.
- Estimate the effectiveness of military operations in countering terrorism in South Asia.
- Point out the role of international diplomacy in conflict resolution between India and Pakistan.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of cross-border terrorism on India-Pakistan relations.
- Cross-border terrorism has fueled mutual distrust and hostility, leading to a cycle of retaliatory actions.
- High-profile attacks, such as the 2001 Parliament attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack, have escalated military tensions.
- India’s military responses, including Operation Sindoor, reflect a shift towards aggressive counterterror strategies.
- Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorist groups complicates diplomatic relations and peace negotiations.
- Public sentiment in both countries often hardens in response to terrorist incidents, affecting bilateral dialogues.
2. What are the strategic goals of Jaish-e-Mohammed? Discuss its historical context.
- Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) aims to integrate Kashmir into Pakistan, promoting a hardline interpretation of Islamic law.
- Founded in 2000 by Maulana Masood Azhar, JeM emerged from earlier militant groups, capitalizing on regional grievances.
- The group has been implicated in numerous attacks against Indian targets, reinforcing its agenda through violence.
- Despite being banned in 2002, JeM continues to operate with ISI support, demonstrating resilience in its goals.
- Azhar’s leadership has weakened due to illness, with his brother now managing operations, indicating ongoing organizational adaptability.
3. Estimate the effectiveness of military operations in countering terrorism in South Asia.
- Military operations, such as Operation Sindoor, target terrorist infrastructure but often face challenges in achieving long-term peace.
- Retaliatory strikes can disrupt operations temporarily but may not eliminate the underlying causes of terrorism.
- Increased military actions can lead to escalation, complicating diplomatic efforts and regional stability.
- Success is often measured in immediate tactical gains rather than strategic outcomes, with groups like JeM remaining active.
- Collaboration with intelligence and law enforcement is crucial for sustained effectiveness against terrorism.
4. Point out the role of international diplomacy in conflict resolution between India and Pakistan.
- International diplomacy can facilitate dialogue, reducing tensions and encouraging cooperation on security issues.
- Global powers often mediate conflicts, urging both nations to pursue peaceful resolutions rather than military confrontations.
- Diplomatic pressure can lead to sanctions or incentives, influencing Pakistan’s approach to groups like JeM.
- Regional stability is often a priority for international actors, who may support initiatives for peace talks.
- However, the effectiveness of diplomacy is often undermined by domestic politics and historical grievances in both nations.
