Operation Sindoor Targeted Only Perpetrators, Not Civilians or Military, Says Rajnath Singh

Rabat, Morocco, Sept 22, 2025 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday clarified that India’s recent Operation Sindoor targeted only terrorists responsible for attacks on Indian citizens, without discriminating based on religion or targeting civilian or military infrastructure. Speaking to the Indian community in Morocco, Singh emphasized India’s secular ethos and commitment to justice based on actions, not religious identity. “Look at the special character of India: the terrorists came and killed our citizens after asking their religion. But we did not act based on anyone’s religion; we acted according to their deeds,” Singh said during his address in Rabat. He underscored that India’s response was guided solely by accountability and the principle of protecting its people. The minister elaborated on India’s secular framework, noting that citizens are free to practice any religion without fear of discrimination. “We have no problem with people following any religion. This is freedom—anyone can believe in whichever faith they choose. Regardless of religion or community, we do not discriminate. This is India’s character,” Singh said. Highlighting the precision of Operation Sindoor, he pointed out that the strikes were focused exclusively on those who carried out attacks against Indian nationals. “We killed only those who killed our people. We didn’t attack any civilian or military establishment. Only India can act with this character. Had we chosen, we could have struck any military or civilian target, but we did not. It is important to uphold this character of India,” Singh added. The remarks came during Singh’s interaction with a gathering of the Indian diaspora, including members of the Indian Association and other community leaders. The event provided a platform for the Defence Minister to reaffirm India’s commitment to secularism, rule of law, and ethical military conduct. Rajnath Singh arrived in Morocco on Sunday for a two-day official visit, marking the first-ever trip by an Indian Defence Minister to the country. He was received at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport by the Head Wali of the Military Command of Casablanca and India’s Ambassador to Morocco, Sanjay Rana. The welcoming ceremony was attended by a large number of Indian expatriates, reflecting the strong presence and engagement of the Indian community in Morocco. During his visit, Singh interacted with local authorities and community members, highlighting the importance of India-Morocco defence and strategic ties. He used the occasion to communicate that India’s military operations adhere to international norms and are carried out with restraint, emphasizing accountability and ethics in line with India’s democratic values. By stressing that Operation Sindoor avoided civilian or military casualties unrelated to the attacks, Singh sought to distinguish India’s approach from indiscriminate retaliation, reinforcing the country’s image as a responsible actor in global security matters. His statements also underscored the Indian government’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad while maintaining a principled stance grounded in secularism, fairness, and adherence to international humanitarian principles.