New Delhi, May 12: On May 12, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation, delivering a powerful message following the successful execution of Operation Sindoor—a military campaign launched in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.

In his speech, PM Modi declared: “Terrorists wiped off the sindoor of our sisters, so we wiped out their bases.” This statement underscored the symbolic significance of the operation’s name, “Sindoor,” referencing the traditional vermilion worn by married Hindu women, and highlighting the personal and national loss inflicted by the attack.

The Prime Minister detailed that Indian forces conducted precision strikes on terrorist training centers in Bahawalpur and Muridke, areas he described as “global universities of terror.” He emphasized that the scale and surprise of the operation were beyond the terrorists’ expectations, stating, “Our missiles and drones have shaken the terrorists. The world saw our pledge turn into reality.”

PM Modi also paid tribute to the Indian armed forces, intelligence agencies, and scientists for their roles in the operation. He dedicated the bravery displayed during Operation Sindoor to the mothers, sisters, and daughters of India, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to protecting its citizens and combating terrorism.

The operation, initiated on May 7, targeted nine terrorist sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, resulting in the elimination of over 100 terrorists. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed these figures, highlighting the operation’s success in dismantling key terror infrastructures.

While the operation received widespread support within India, it also sparked political debates. Opposition parties questioned the government’s transparency regarding the operation and the role of foreign mediation in the subsequent ceasefire agreement with Pakistan.