Amritsar– The Indian Army on Monday revealed that advanced air defense systems, including the Akash missile system, successfully intercepted Pakistani missiles and drones aimed at the Golden Temple—Sikhism’s holiest shrine—and several cities across Punjab during the recent Operation Sindoor.
In a demonstration held in Amritsar, Army officials displayed debris from the intercepted aerial threats, highlighting the crucial role played by the Indian Army’s air defense units in preventing a potential tragedy.
Major General Kartik C. Seshadri, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 15th Infantry Division, confirmed that Pakistan attempted to strike the Golden Temple in the early hours of May 8, following India’s precision air strikes on nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
“Pakistan had no legitimate military targets to retaliate against, and it was expected they would resort to targeting civilian and religious sites,” Major General Seshadri stated. “Fortunately, our air defense teams were on high alert. Our brave and vigilant gunners intercepted and neutralized all incoming drones and missiles aimed at the Golden Temple and other civilian areas.”
The revelation has sparked strong reactions across the country, particularly among the Sikh community.
Amit Malviya, head of the BJP’s National Information and Technology Department, condemned the attack in a post on X (formerly Twitter):
“The Indian Army’s confirmation of drone and missile attacks targeting Sri Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) is both shocking and deeply disturbing. It underscores the true intent of Pakistan’s military establishment and its proxies—to create chaos and strike at the heart of India’s spiritual and cultural identity.”
Malviya further emphasized that such actions reveal Pakistan’s moral and strategic failure.
“No true Sikh—whose identity is rooted in justice, sacrifice, and patriotism—could ever align with a state that repeatedly targets peace, faith, and humanity,” he wrote. “This was not merely an attack on a religious site, but on the very soul of India and the sacred legacy of Sikhism.”
He urged Sikhs worldwide to recognize the gravity of the threat, calling it an assault on the unity and heritage of the Indian nation. (Source: IANS)
