Operation Sindoor has seen dramatic developments this May as Pakistan violated the ceasefire agreement hours after it was reached with India, leading to heightened security alerts across multiple border states. Here’s what you need to know:
The ceasefire violation was reported on May 10, 2025, just hours after India and Pakistan agreed to halt military action by 5 pm IST, following a call initiated by Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO). The breach triggered retaliation by Indian forces along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC).
Drones believed to be operated by Pakistan were sighted over Barmer in Rajasthan, Kutch district in Gujarat, and Udhampur in Jammu & Kashmir. Indian air defense intercepted these drones during enforced blackouts which authorities imposed in sensitive areas to minimize civilian risk and improve response capabilities.
Amid the escalation, multiple loud explosions were heard across Srinagar, causing panic among residents and prompting Jammu and Kashmir's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to express alarm on social media. Red streaks illuminating the night sky were reported as Indian air defense engaged drone incursions.
Tragically, BSF Sub Inspector Md Imteyaz was killed during cross-border firing in the R S Pura area of Jammu. The Border Security Force paid homage with full honors on May 11 at Frontier Headquarters Jammu.
The Indian government and armed forces have stressed a firm stance. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that the military is on high alert and has orders to respond decisively to any future ceasefire violations. There is a new policy shift where India will classify any future terror acts as acts of war.
Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan convened emergency video conferences with chief secretaries of border-sharing states including Punjab, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, and Gujarat. These states imposed precautionary blackouts, closed malls and tall buildings, and urged civilians to remain indoors, signaling the seriousness of the breach.
Authorities in cities such as Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Chandigarh issued advisories to citizens for voluntary blackout and maintaining calm to mitigate panic as security forces monitor the evolving situation closely.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, NSA Ajit Doval, and chiefs of all services held a high-level meeting to review security and operational readiness following the ceasefire breach.
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed support for Pakistan’s sovereignty during talks with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, illustrating the regional diplomatic dimension.
India's Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the ceasefire agreement was a direct bilateral engagement without third-party mediation despite statements by other international figures. The understanding remains fragile with continued vigilance across all fronts.
Operation Sindoor reflects complex and escalating India-Pakistan border tensions with ongoing developments in diplomacy, military posturing, and civilian safety measures. For more on the India-Pakistan conflict and regional security dynamics, comprehensive resources include analyses on cross-border operations and India’s strategic military responses.
