In a surprising turn, India has discreetly acknowledged the loss of several military personnel—including three Rafale fighter jet pilots—during its recent conflict with Pakistan, despite earlier public denials of any casualties.
The shift reportedly comes after growing pressure from within the Indian military and concerned families, as well as internal debates over transparency. This acknowledgment marks the first official hint at the true scale of losses during May’s intense but brief conflict, known on the Indian side as Operation Sindoor.
According to multiple sources and media outlets, India faced heavy casualties, especially along the Line of Control (LoC), with over 250 personnel reportedly killed in action.
While the government has not released a public statement outlining the details, its recent announcement of posthumous awards to more than 100 armed forces members speaks volumes. Among the honorees were four Indian Air Force pilots, three of whom were flying Rafales, five S-400 air defence operators, and several logistics and base staff.
Reported casualties include:
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9 personnel from Udhampur Airbase
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2 from Rajouri aviation base
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4 from Uri supply depot
There are also reports that families of the fallen have been told to avoid posting tributes or photos online, as authorities continue trying to manage public reaction and limit media attention to the issue.
Critics and opposition voices in India have begun asking tough questions. “If there were no losses, why are honors being given posthumously?” has become a common refrain. Earlier, the Indian government had categorically rejected reports of damage or casualties at high-value installations such as Pathankot and Udhampur.
The conflict, which erupted in early May 2025, was triggered by Indian airstrikes, prompting Pakistan to launch Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, targeting multiple Indian military facilities. According to Pakistani sources, six Indian fighter jets—including three Rafales—were shot down, alongside dozens of surveillance drones.
Hostilities came to a halt after 87 hours, following a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on May 10, 2025.
