Did Pakistan Know About Operation Sindoor? DGMO’s 11 May Truth Sparks Viral Debate

India’s Operation Sindoor, launched on 7 May 2025 to dismantle terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK, has ignited a firestorm of speculation 4f9debate following a 11 May 2025 statement by India’s DGMO, Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai. His claim, made during a press conference, suggested Pakistan may have been aware of the operation, sparking widespread speculation and viral discussions about whether India informed Pakistan in advance, potentially compromising the mission’s secrecy.

The DGMO’s Revelation
During a joint briefing, DGMO Ghai detailed Operation Sindoor’s success, stating over 100 terrorists, including high-value targets, were eliminated in precision strikes. However, his mention of a DGMO-level dialogue with Pakistan, initiated by the latter on 10 May, led to questions about prior communication. Some interpreted this as evidence that Pakistan was tipped off before the 7 May strikes, raising concerns about strategic leaks or diplomatic protocols. The statement, now viral, has fueled debates over India’s operational secrecy.

केंद्रीय मंत्री @DrSJaishankar के बयान को गलत संदर्भ में पेश किया जा रहा है। #PIBFactcheck ने सोशल मीडिया पर किए जा रहे ऐसे दावों का पूर्व में खंडन किया है।

🔗https://t.co/DQriAgE56e https://t.co/bWSDyswDja

— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) May 17, 2025

Speculation and Denials
The suggestion that Pakistan knew beforehand has drawn sharp reactions. India’s Ministry of External Affairs and the Press Information Bureau have denied claims that Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed prior notification, labeling such reports as misinformation. Official statements emphasize that any communication occurred only after the operation began, likely to manage escalation. Pakistani sources, meanwhile, express surprise at the strikes, suggesting they were caught off-guard, which contradicts the notion of advance knowledge.

Strategic Implications
If Pakistan was informed, it could indicate a calculated move by India to avoid broader conflict, given the nuclear capabilities of both nations. However, such a decision risks undermining the operation’s effectiveness, as forewarned targets could evade strikes. Conversely, Pakistan’s swift retaliatory shelling and frantic global outreach, as noted by PM Modi, suggest they were unprepared, casting doubt on prior awareness. The truth remains murky, with strategic posturing clouding clarity.

Public and Political Fallout
The viral debate has polarized opinions. Some laud India’s transparency if it informed Pakistan, seeing it as a mature de-escalation tactic. Others, including opposition leaders, criticize the government, arguing that any prior notice jeopard of undermines national security. On social media, the DGMO’s statement has sparked memes, accusations, and calls for clarity, reflecting public frustration with ambiguous official narratives. As Operation Sindoor’s legacy unfolds, the question of Pakistan’s knowledge remains a contentious enigma.