Rajnath Singh Clarifies: Operation Sindoor Targets Based on Threat, Not Religion

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has given a firm statement on how the government and armed forces are conducting Operation Sindoor, India’s latest counter-terror mission. Addressing speculations that religion or community considerations might play a role in deciding military targets, Singh asserted that India’s operations are driven solely by security needs and threat perception, not by any religious bias.

Bharat Daily Samachar

9/22/20253 min read

By: Bharat Daily Samachar Date: 22 Sep,2025

Rajnath Singh Speaks on Operation Sindoor: Target Selection Not Based on Faith

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has given a firm statement on how the government and armed forces are conducting Operation Sindoor, India’s latest counter-terror mission. Addressing speculations that religion or community considerations might play a role in deciding military targets, Singh asserted that India’s operations are driven solely by security needs and threat perception, not by any religious bias.

His comment—“Dharm dekh kar nahi, khatra dekh kar nishana chuna gaya hai” (Targets were chosen not based on religion, but on the danger they posed)—has become the defining line of his address. The remark highlights the Indian government’s stand that counter-terror measures are aimed strictly at safeguarding national security, without discrimination.

Background: What is Operation Sindoor?

Operation Sindoor has emerged as one of India’s most critical security responses against cross-border terrorism and infiltration attempts. Launched earlier this year, the operation aims to dismantle terror networks operating in sensitive border regions, particularly those receiving support from across the Line of Control (LoC).

According to intelligence reports, the operation involves coordinated strikes, high-tech surveillance, and intelligence-driven raids targeting terror hideouts and sleeper cells. While the full details remain classified for security reasons, the government has maintained that the operation is a defensive and preventive measure designed to protect Indian citizens.

Rajnath Singh’s Key Message

In his speech, Rajnath Singh underlined three important points:

  1. Security First, Not Religion – The Defence Minister made it clear that military operations are designed to neutralize threats, not to target any community. This message was meant to reassure citizens that India’s actions are guided by strategic necessity, not prejudice.

  2. Zero Tolerance for Terrorism – Singh reiterated that India will continue to take firm, proactive action against terrorism, both within the country and at its borders.

  3. Support for Armed Forces – He praised the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy for their discipline, courage, and professionalism, highlighting that their conduct in Operation Sindoor reflects India’s values of fairness and responsibility even in combat situations.

Why His Statement Matters

The Defence Minister’s clarification comes at a time when propaganda and misinformation are being spread by certain groups to paint India’s counter-terror actions as biased. By directly stating that religion is not a factor in target selection, Rajnath Singh has sent a clear diplomatic and domestic message:

  • To citizens, that India stands by its secular and inclusive principles.

  • To terror groups, that they cannot shield themselves behind religious identities.

  • To the international community, that India’s fight is against terrorism, not any faith.

Operation Sindoor: Early Impacts

Reports suggest that Operation Sindoor has already led to the dismantling of several terror camps and the neutralization of high-profile militant leaders. Border infiltration attempts have also reportedly decreased in the past few weeks, with surveillance drones and advanced monitoring systems playing a key role.

Locals in affected regions have expressed relief that security forces are taking strong steps, though they also hope for long-term stability and peace once the operation concludes.

Political and Public Reactions

Rajnath Singh’s remarks have been welcomed by security analysts and political allies. Many see his statement as a timely clarification to prevent misinterpretation of India’s military actions.

On social media, hashtags such as #OperationSindoor and #RajnathSingh began trending, with citizens praising the government for taking a firm yet balanced stance. At the same time, some critics have argued that the government must also focus on diplomatic engagement to complement military action.

India’s Broader Strategy Against Terrorism

Operation Sindoor fits into India’s larger counter-terrorism framework, which combines:

  • Military precision operations to eliminate active threats.

  • Intelligence sharing and international cooperation, especially with countries facing similar challenges.

  • Diplomatic outreach to expose cross-border support for terrorism at global forums.

This multi-pronged strategy reflects India’s long-term commitment to eradicating terrorism while maintaining its democratic and secular ethos.

Final Thoughts

Rajnath Singh’s firm words on Operation Sindoor carry a strong message: India’s fight is against terrorism, not religion. By stressing that targets are chosen based on threat perception alone, he has reinforced the principle that security is the priority, not prejudice.

As Operation Sindoor continues, the Defence Minister’s statement reassures both citizens and the international community that India remains committed to justice, fairness, and national security in its ongoing battle against terrorism.

The message is clear—India will act decisively against any danger to its people, but it will do so while upholding its core values.