KKN Gurugram Desk | In a disturbing revelation, the Indian Army disclosed on Monday that Pakistan attempted to target the revered Golden Temple in Amritsar using drones and long-range missiles. The nefarious plot was foiled by India’s advanced air defense systems, which successfully intercepted and neutralized all incoming aerial threats.

The revelation comes days after India’s retaliatory airstrike on terror hubs in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on the night of May 6-7, an operation dubbed by insiders as one of the most precise and coordinated responses in recent years.

How the Indian Army Foiled the Attack on Golden Temple

Major General Karthik C. Seshadri, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 15 Infantry Division, revealed that credible intelligence inputs had indicated that Pakistan could target high-profile civilian and religious sites in retaliation to India’s airstrikes on terror camps in Muridke and other regions in PoK.

“Among the primary targets was the Golden Temple. Our assessment led to the immediate deployment of advanced air defense systems like the Akash Missile System, L-70 Air Defense Guns, and radar-guided interceptors in Amritsar and surrounding areas,” Seshadri said.

The Indian Army’s defense shield intercepted multiple kamikaze drones, surface-to-surface missiles, and air-launched cruise missiles, preventing any damage to the sacred Sikh shrine.

 Pakistan’s Targeting of Religious Sites: A Dangerous Escalation

According to Major General Seshadri, Pakistan’s actions indicated a deliberate plan to provoke religious and communal unrest in India. By targeting one of the most sacred Sikh religious sites, Islamabad was attempting to exploit deep historical sensitivities.

“Their plan was not just military retaliation—it was a psychological operation aimed at disrupting India’s internal harmony,” he emphasized.

 Timeline of Events

May 6-7, 2025:

• Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted precision airstrikes on terror launchpads in PoK, targeting Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters and other facilities.

May 8, 2025:

• In the early morning hours, Pakistani forces launched a coordinated aerial assault using drones and missiles.

• Targets included military bases, air stations, and civilian infrastructure, particularly in Punjab.

May 9–10, 2025:

• Pakistani drones altered their strategy after failing to penetrate defense perimeters.

• Focus shifted toward Amritsar, with Golden Temple becoming a key target.

• Indian air defense teams intercepted all incoming aerial threats with 95% accuracy.

 Weapons Recovered: Turkish-Origin Kamikaze Drones

Indian forces recovered several YIHA-III and Songar kamikaze drones, believed to be of Turkish origin, from the debris. Some of these drones were programmed for low-altitude targeting, indicating sophisticated foreign involvement in Pakistan’s retaliation plans.

“Only 10% of our air defense arsenal was used, yet we neutralized every single threat. This underscores the precision and readiness of our defensive posture,” an Army spokesperson stated.

 Indian Response to Border Provocations

Major General Seshadri also noted that Pakistan has increasingly relied on proxy warfare. Unable to confront Indian forces in conventional battle due to repeated military setbacks, the Pakistani army has shifted toward using drones, irregular infiltration, and hybrid tactics.

“Their posts fire at our border outposts only to distract us and facilitate infiltration. But we know their weak spots—riverine gaps and forest corridors. We’ve fortified those with surveillance, better terrain mapping, and aggressive counter-patrols.”

He further added that several Pakistani military bunkers along the LoC were destroyed in Indian counterattacks over the past week.

 Strategic Importance of Golden Temple in Indo-Pak Conflict

The Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) is one of the holiest sites in Sikhism and a globally recognized religious and cultural landmark. Any attack on it could have catastrophic consequences, both domestically and internationally.

• It draws millions of pilgrims annually.

• It stands as a symbol of peace and resilience.

• It holds immense historical significance, especially post-1984 events.

India’s swift protection of the site sends a strong message that any threat to its cultural and religious heritage will be met with decisive force.

🇮🇳 National Leadership Reacts

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, responding to the developments, said:

“Not even Chinese drones or technology can save Pakistan from the might of India’s defense. Our BrahMos missiles have already neutralized their airbases. The attempted attack on Golden Temple only shows their desperation and cowardice.”

Shah confirmed that India remains on high alert and that any future misadventure by Pakistan will be met with a stronger response.

 Public Sentiment: Outrage and Relief

Social media platforms were flooded with messages of relief and gratitude toward the Indian Army, especially from the Sikh community.

• “The sanctity of Harmandir Sahib must always be protected. Thank you, Indian Army,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter).

• Religious leaders also praised the army’s preparedness, urging citizens to maintain peace and harmony.

 Implications for India-Pakistan Relations

This episode marks a dangerous escalation in Indo-Pak tensions. By targeting religious sites, Pakistan has crossed a line that may lead to:

• Global diplomatic isolation

• Stronger sanctions or blacklisting at FATF and UN forums

• Further military retaliation if future provocations occur

India is expected to raise this matter at international platforms, highlighting the blatant violation of religious sanctity and international norms.

The attempted attack on the Golden Temple by Pakistani drones and missiles could have been one of the most devastating provocations in modern Indo-Pak history. Thanks to India’s foresight, intelligence coordination, and cutting-edge air defense systems, a major catastrophe was averted.

The incident stands as a testament to the Indian Army’s vigilance, reaffirming that national security and cultural heritage remain non-negotiable.