Pakistan to Pay ₹14 Crore to Terrorist Masood Azhar After Operation Sindoor Losses

Reports emerged that Pakistan’s Shahbaz Sharif government plans to pay ₹14 crore to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar, a UN-designated global terrorist, as compensation for losses incurred during India’s Operation Sindoor. The operation, launched on May 7, targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, following the April 22 Pahalgam attack. This move has sparked widespread condemnation, exposing Pakistan’s persistent support for terrorism.

Operation Sindoor’s Impact
Operation Sindoor was a decisive Indian military strike that dismantled nine terror camps, including JeM’s headquarters in Bahawalpur, neutralizing over 100 terrorists, including 14 of Azhar’s family members. The operation, a response to the Pahalgam attack that killed 25 Indian civilians and one Nepali national, aimed to cripple terror infrastructure with precision, minimizing civilian casualties. India’s armed forces, leveraging tri-service coordination, ensured a targeted approach, yet Pakistan’s decision to compensate Azhar has raised serious questions about its anti-terrorism commitment.

Pakistan’s Controversial Compensation
The Shahbaz government’s plan to provide ₹1 crore per deceased family member, totaling ₹14 crore for Azhar, has been criticized as a blatant endorsement of terrorism. Posts on X reflect public outrage, accusing Pakistan of rewarding jihad over justice. The funds, reportedly aimed at rebuilding JeM and LeT-linked properties destroyed in the strikes, contradict Pakistan’s claims of cracking down on terror groups, especially under FATF scrutiny. This move is seen as an attempt to placate terror outfits while deflecting international pressure.

Global and Domestic Backlash
The decision has drawn sharp criticism globally and within India, with many labeling Pakistan a “terrorist state.” 

India’s prior warnings to the IMF about Pakistan misusing loans for terror activities have gained traction, as posts on X question the role of international funding in enabling such payouts. This development risks further isolating Pakistan diplomatically, especially as India strengthens its anti-terror stance.

A Blow to Anti-Terror Efforts
Pakistan’s compensation to Azhar undermines global counter-terrorism efforts, particularly after his 2019 UN terrorist designation. India’s Operation Sindoor showcased its resolve, but Pakistan’s response highlights its duplicity. The international community must address this brazen support for terrorism to ensure accountability.