After repeated denial, India finally admits deaths of Rafale pilots, 250 soldiers
New Delhi: After repeated denial, the Indian military has now indirectly acknowledged the deaths of several personnel, including Rafale fighter jet pilots, by announcing military honours for them.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the move, reportedly taken under internal pressure, has lifted the lid on what was previously kept under wraps–India suffered heavy losses during Operation Sindoor.
The Indian armed forces suffered a major loss during the operation, particularly along the Line of Control, where over 250 fatalities were reported.
Despite this, the Indian government and military avoided publicly acknowledging the scale of damage until the announcement of honours brought the casualties into the open.
Among those to be awarded posthumously are four Indian Air Force pilots, three of whom flew Rafale jets. The list also includes five operators of the S-400 air defence system who were killed at the Adampur Airbase, security officials say.
Nine more personnel who lost their lives at the Udhampur Airbase, including members of its air defence unit, are also named for honours.
In addition, two soldiers from the Rajouri aviation base and four others from the Uri supply depot, including its officer-in-charge, are reportedly being recognized.
Families of the deceased have been reportedly asked not to share photos or tributes on social media, as authorities continue efforts to keep the losses out of the public eye.
Critics are now asking: if there were no casualties, as the Indian government long claimed, why are these honours being handed out now?
India has previously denied any major damage or loss of life during incidents at key installations like Pathankot and Udhampur.
However, international media reports suggest that effective strikes from Pakistan forced India to agree to a ceasefire — a move that followed substantial military setbacks.
