In a shocking escalation of tensions, Pakistan attempted to target the Golden Temple Amritsar with drones and missiles during the night of May 7–8. This move came in retaliation for India’s Operation Sindoor, which struck nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Pakistan Aimed at Religious and Civilian Sites
Major General Kartik C Seshadri, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 15th Infantry Division, revealed the details. He said the Pakistani army had no legitimate military targets and likely intended to hit civilian and religious sites.
“We anticipated that Pakistan would target military bases or iconic landmarks like the Golden Temple,” he told ANI. “The Golden Temple appeared to be their primary target.”
To protect the sacred site, the Indian Army deployed modern air defence systems, creating a full aerial shield.
Also Read: Ambala Travel Guide: Top Places to Visit & Foods to Try in Haryana’s Historic City
Indian Forces Neutralised All Threats
In the early hours of May 8, Pakistan launched a large-scale air attack. Under the cover of darkness, it sent drones and long-range missiles into Indian airspace. However, Indian forces were already on high alert.
Thanks to their preparation, Indian air defence units intercepted and destroyed every incoming threat. “Our alert air defence gunners shot down all drones and missiles. Not even a scratch touched the Golden Temple,” Major General Seshadri confirmed.
Defence Systems Demonstrated in Action
Soon after the failed strike, the Indian Army demonstrated how its air defence systems—including the AKASH missile system and L-70 Air Defence Guns—successfully neutralised the aerial threats.
The Defence Ministry confirmed that Pakistan had targeted multiple Indian cities and military bases. These included Amritsar, Jammu, Srinagar, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Chandigarh, and Bhuj. Explosions were also reported across parts of Kashmir.
Despite the widespread attack, India’s Integrated Counter-UAS Grid and air defence network responded swiftly and effectively, stopping all threats mid-air.
Operation Sindoor: The Backdrop
This assault from Pakistan followed India’s Operation Sindoor—a precision military strike on nine terrorist training camps across Pakistan and PoK. The operation responded to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 civilians.
India’s firm action sent a clear message. And when Pakistan attempted a retaliatory strike, Indian forces stood ready to defend the nation’s people and its most sacred places.
