Operation Sindhoor was opportunity to eliminate cross-border terrorism: Karnataka CM

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah speaking to press reporters at Ginigera air strip in Koppal district on May 16, 2025.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Upholding Operation Sindoor, the air strikes by the Indian armed forces against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, as retaliation for the killing of 26 innocent tourists by terrorists at Pahalgam in Kashmir, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asserted that the operation was an opportunity to dismantle terrorist bases.

“When it comes to national security, we cannot remain silent. 26 people were killed in the Pahalgam attack. We are deeply pained by the incident. Pakistan continues to shelter and support terrorists. India’s Operation Sindoor was a necessary measure against terrorism. India had a legitimate opportunity to destroy terrorists through it,” Siddaramaiah said in his brief interaction with mediamen at Ginigera air strip in Koppal district on May 16.

The Chief Minister was en route to Hosapete to review preparations for the Sadhana Samavesha, a public rally marking two years of Congress governance in Karnataka.

When asked about his previous statement on the possible war between India and Pakistan, Mr. Siddaramaiah admitted that he had stated that war should be avoided if possible, but it should be waged if unavoidable.

“I never opposed necessary military action. When national security is at stake and our sovereignty is challenged, we must respond decisively. My words about avoiding war were highlighted, while my larger point was ignored. Later, it was portrayed that I was against war altogether. I never said that. When it comes to national defence, and when someone provokes us, we cannot remain silent. We must wage war. We need to maintain our unity. That’s why when India fought against Pakistan, the entire nation stood united,” he explained.

Pointing to what he termed ‘inconsistent statements’ by international leaders regarding a ceasefire agreement to end armed conflict between India and Pakistan, Mr. Siddaramaiah said that US President Donald Trump’s initial statements on the issue appeared more credible.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar have already spoken about the ceasefire. However, US President Donald Trump’s statements from the day before, and from yesterday, are different. I believe Mr. Trump’s initial statement holds more truth,” he said, obliquely referring to Mr. Trump’s repeated claims of having mediated the ceasefire truce.  

Reacting to criticism from some Congress legislators over Operation Sindhoor, Mr. Siddaramaiah defended their right to express differing opinions. “Even BJP leaders too voiced their views.” He said.

Responding sharply to BJP leaders’ criticism against Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024, Mr. Siddaramaiah said BJP had initiated the process of dividing Bengaluru into three administrative divisions when S. Suresh Kumar was Urban Development Minister in the BJP government.