Bhopal, May 7 (IANS) The first anniversary of Operation Sindoor on Thursday was marked in Madhya Pradesh, with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) projecting the military action as a defining moment in India’s counter-terrorism strategy, while placing strong emphasis on national security and the armed forces.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that the ‘Operation Sindoor’ reflected India’s firm resolve to protect its citizens and respond decisively to terrorism.

“Operation Sindoor is a symbol of India’s courage and decisive leadership in safeguarding its citizens. The bravery of our armed forces ensures the dignity, pride, and security of the nation,” Chief Minister Yadav said on social media platform X.

The Madhya Pradesh BJP unit used the occasion to highlight ‘Operation Sindoor’ as a turning point in India’s counter-terror approach, projecting it as evidence of a more assertive national security doctrine under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Reacting to this occasion, State BJP President Hemant Khandelwal described the operation as a clear and strong message to terror networks.

“Within a short span, terrorist infrastructure was neutralised, sending a clear message that India will respond firmly and decisively to any threat. This is a new India that will not remain silent in the face of aggression,” he said.

Following the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’ last year, the State BJP unit had organised ‘Tiranga Yatras’ across Madhya Pradesh with participation of party workers, supporters, and citizens.

However, the first anniversary of Operation Sindoor also brought back attention to a political controversy linked to last year’s observance.

During those events, state Minister Vijay Shah had made remarks referring to Colonel Sofia Qureshi, which drew sharp criticism from opposition parties and sections of civil society.

His statement had triggered allegations of insensitivity and inappropriate language, leading to a political row at the time, which was also condemned by the Supreme Court.

The Madhya Pradesh Congress, which is set to organise a massive roadblock to corner the BJP on farmers issues on Thursday, was yet to make any official statement on the first anniversary of the ‘Operation Sindoor’.

–IANS

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