Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, May 7: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, along with Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar and leaders from both Congress and BJP, has strongly backed Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces' retaliatory airstrike targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), in response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack.
Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah said, “The Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK. At nine locations, the Indian Army struck terror bases. Except for terrorist targets, no other areas were attacked, and no innocent civilians in Pakistan were harmed.”
He further stated, “Our government offers a big salute to the efficiency and expertise of the Indian soldiers. This is a warning bell to Pakistan. India will not hesitate to wage war if necessary.”
Condemning the Pahalgam incident where 26 innocent civilians lost their lives, Siddaramaiah remarked, “The brutal attack in Pahalgam was not just on innocent lives, it was an assault on the dreams and spirit of India. Every effort of our brave soldiers is a pledge to bring justice to the victims, their families, and to every Indian who believes in peace and humanity.”
He added, “I salute the extraordinary courage of our armed forces behind Operation Sindoor. Their heroic action reaffirms that India will never tolerate terror in any form. Karnataka joins the nation in expressing unwavering solidarity with our forces. We are proud of your valour, sacrifice, and unflinching commitment to protect our sovereignty. Terror has no place in our land. India will respond with strength and unity.”
The chief minister also assured full coordination with the Centre, stating, “We will implement all necessary precautionary measures and conduct mock drills across Bengaluru. We stand by the Central government’s directives and fully support this decision.”
In a mark of respect to the armed forces, the Karnataka state Congress cancelled a planned protest rally against the Central government’s policies on constitutional rights and price rise. “Holding a protest at this moment is inappropriate. The Indian armed forces’ action against Pakistan is appropriate. We support Operation Sindoor and stand fully with the armed forces,” Siddaramaiah emphasised.
When asked about BJP’s criticism over a deleted Congress social media post, Siddaramaiah declined to respond, saying, “At this point in time, we must support whatever actions are taken by our armed forces.”
Addressing questions about the Congress party quoting Mahatma Gandhi on peace, he clarified, “That was a different time. The eras of Mahatma Gandhi, Buddha, and Basavanna were different. When we are attacked without provocation, can we remain silent?”
Deputy CM Shivakumar also echoed support, stating, “Operation Sindoor is a befitting reply to the cowardly Pahalgam terror attack. We stand with the government, we stand with our security forces. Jai Hind.”
In a public statement, the Karnataka Congress unit said, “The Indian Air Force, widely recognised as one of the world’s strongest air forces, gave a befitting reply to the cowardly Pahalgam terrorist attack. We stand with the government and our forces.”
BJP State president B Y Vijayendra added, “In a clinical and precise operation, the Indian Army has begun avenging the targeted killings of Hindus in Pahalgam.”
BJP MLA and State general secretary V Sunil Kumar described the action as a “bold retaliation against Pakistan-sponsored terrorist activities.” He claimed, “Hundreds of terrorists have been killed in this attack. I hope this serves as a strong blow that deters Pakistan from ever provoking India again.”
Warning of internal threats, he said, “The country is facing a war-like situation, and within our nation, some divisive minds may attempt to poison the atmosphere. Let us stay alert, follow Central government advisories, and stand firmly for the security and sovereignty of our nation.”