During his presentation on June 10, Captain Kumar stated that the IAF had lost “some aircraft” following its strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor. He explained that this was a result of clear instructions from the political leadership to avoid striking Pakistani military infrastructure or air defences during the first wave of attacks, which aimed to prevent further escalation in the region.
Captain Kumar added that following the initial losses, the armed forces modified their strategy by targeting military installations and prioritising the suppression of enemy air defences, allowing for more precise and effective strikes using BrahMos missiles in subsequent operations.
The remarks quickly drew political criticism, with Congress accusing the BJP-led government of compromising national security and misleading the public about the realities of Operation Sindoor. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh questioned the Prime Minister’s reluctance to convene an all-party meeting on the matter and criticised the rejection of a special parliamentary session to discuss national security issues linked to the operation.
Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera described Captain Kumar’s statements as a “direct indictment” of the government’s handling of the operation, alleging that the administration feared exposure of its missteps and compromises on national security by the opposition.
Amidst these exchanges, the Indian Embassy’s statement sought to refocus attention on the operational context and strategic intent of the armed forces during Operation Sindoor, reiterating the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to act within the directives of civilian leadership while prioritising national security and regional stability.
