After persistent denials of any fatalities, the Indian military has now indirectly confirmed the deaths of several personnel, including Rafale fighter jet pilots, by announcing military honors for them, security sources informed Geo News on Sunday.
This decision, reportedly made under internal pressure, has unveiled previously concealed information: India sustained significant losses during an engagement termed “Operation Sindoor.”
According to security sources, the Indian armed forces suffered a major blow in this operation, particularly along the Line of Control (LoC), where over 250 fatalities were reported. Despite these losses, the Indian government and military refrained from publicly acknowledging the extent of the damage until the announcement of these honors brought the casualties into the open.
Among those slated for posthumous awards are four Indian Air Force pilots, three of whom operated Rafale jets. The list also includes five operators of the S-400 air defense system who were killed at Adampur Airbase, as stated by security officials. Additionally, nine more personnel who died at Udhampur Airbase, including members of its air defense unit, are also being recognized. Furthermore, two soldiers from the Rajouri aviation base and four others from the Uri supply depot, including its officer-in-charge, are reportedly being honored.
Security sources claim that the families of the deceased have been instructed not to share photos or tributes on social media, as authorities continue efforts to keep these losses from public knowledge. Critics are now questioning the prolonged denial by the Indian government, asking: if there were no casualties, why are these honors being bestowed now?
India has previously denied any substantial damage or loss of life during incidents at critical installations like Pathankot and Udhampur. However, international media reports suggest that effective strikes from Pakistan compelled India to agree to a ceasefire—a move that followed considerable military setbacks.
Pakistan initiated a large-scale retaliatory military action, codenamed “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” targeting several Indian military objectives across multiple regions in response to New Delhi’s repeated unprovoked missile strikes on Pakistani soil. Pakistan successfully downed six IAF fighter jets, including three Rafales, and dozens of drones. After at least 87 hours, the conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations concluded on May 10 with a ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States.
According to ISPR, a total of 53 individuals, comprising 13 armed forces personnel and 40 civilians, were martyred in Indian strikes during the recent military confrontation.
