New Delhi, 1st June 2025 – In a development that has sent shockwaves across the nation, India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, has publicly acknowledged for the first time that Indian fighter jets were indeed hit during the recent Operation Sindoor, the four-day high-intensity military engagement with Pakistan.
While the exact number of aircraft lost remains classified, this marks a rare and significant admission from the topmost military leadership.
“Some Fighter Jets Were Downed,” Says CDS
In an exclusive interview, General Chauhan said:
“Yes, we did suffer some losses. It would not be prudent to share specific numbers, but what’s more important is learning from the tactical mistakes and refining our preparedness.”
This statement comes after weeks of speculation and conflicting reports from both Indian and Pakistani sources. Until now, the Indian government had not confirmed any losses, fueling both domestic and international curiosity about the real cost of Operation Sindoor.
Pakistan Claims vs Indian Stand
Pakistan had earlier claimed that it downed as many as six Indian fighter jets, including some Rafales, during the initial days of the conflict. General Chauhan, however, firmly rejected those figures, calling them “absolutely incorrect and inflated.”
“We did face setbacks in the early stages, but we responded with evolved tactics and precision strikes deep into enemy territory,” he added.
The Indian Air Force reportedly shifted strategy mid-conflict, launching retaliatory strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure and military air bases inside Pakistan.
Political Fallout in India
As expected, the CDS’s statement has sparked a political storm back home.
The Congress and Trinamool Congress (TMC) were quick to react, slamming the Modi government for what they called “misleading the public about the true costs of war.” Several opposition leaders have now demanded a special parliamentary session and an independent review into India’s defense preparedness.
Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said:
“We salute the bravery of our forces. But the people of India deserve transparency. Why was this hidden until now?”
Modi Govt’s Response: “Operation Sindoor Was a Success”
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stood by the armed forces and hailed Operation Sindoor as one of India’s “most successful counter-terrorism operations.”
In a recent address, he stated:
“Our jawans have shown the world what India is capable of. Every sacrifice will be remembered, and every response will be swift.”
