Op Sindoor: No room for complacency

The success of Operation Sindoor must be backed by a strong and adaptive internal security framework. Better inter-agency coordination, real-time intelligence sharing, and the use of advanced technology are essential for early detection

India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 last year in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled areas. The operation marked a shift in India’s counter-terror approach, combining precision strikes, real-time intelligence, and advanced technology, while signalling a willingness to act proactively against cross-border threats.

Despite Operation Sindoor demonstrating India’s strength, its deterrent effect on Pakistan appears limited, with Pakistan-backed networks continuing activities in more covert and sophisticated ways, reflecting a sense of confidence. Pakistan’s ISI, long driven by anti-India rhetoric, continues to follow the doctrine of “bleeding India through a thousand cuts.” Pakistan appears to be in an upbeat mode, and it would be unrealistic to assume passivity. Recent intelligence inputs and recoveries of explosives and weapons suggest ongoing preparations, raising concerns about coordinated rather than isolated attacks.

A key concern is the renewed focus on urban terrorism. Major cities and symbolic locations remain prime targets due to their high psychological and media impact. Investigations into the 2025 Red Fort blast have revealed a wide conspiracy involving operatives across multiple states, highlighting the growing coordination and reach of such networks.

Uncovering a hidden network

In recent months, arrests by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and state police have increased, exposing the depth of these networks. In the Red Fort blast case alone, over ten individuals were arrested, including key planners and logistical supporters linked to groups like Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind. They were not just foot soldiers but played crucial roles in arranging weapons, managing logistics, and executing plans.

What is particularly concerning is the changing profile of those involved. Some accused were educated professionals, including doctors and technically skilled individuals. This reflects the rise of “white-collar terrorism,” where expertise in IT, engineering, and finance is used to support extremist activities. Such actors are harder to detect as they operate within legitimate systems and maintain a low profile.

At the same time, ISIS-linked modules are becoming more visible in India. Investigations in Maharashtra and Pune have uncovered sleeper cells involved in recruitment, surveillance, and explosives training. Arrests across states show these are not isolated groups but part of a broader, interconnected network. In one major case, a planned ISIS-inspired attack was foiled, preventing a potential large-scale incident.

Illegal arms trafficking is another concern. Cases like the Muzaffarpur AK-47 seizure reveal organised supply chains with cross-border links, highlighting the nexus between external support and domestic operatives. Together, these trends point to a well-integrated system of recruitment, funding, logistics, and execution.

This growing sophistication is also visible in subtle ways. In March, a Pakistan-linked espionage plot involving covert, solar-powered CCTV cameras at Delhi Cantt railway station was uncovered. These were allegedly meant to stream real-time footage of military movements to foreign handlers, showing how surveillance is becoming more discreet and technology-driven. Such tools can map movements, identify vulnerabilities, and aid future attacks. It also demonstrates how small and unusual findings can form part of a larger plan, underlining the need for constant vigilance.

These developments do not necessarily indicate an immediate large-scale attack. Instead, they reflect ongoing efforts to gather information and prepare. In simple terms, the threat is not decreasing; rather, it is changing its methods.

Emerging trends: The new face of terrorism

Terrorism today is undergoing a major shift. It is no longer limited to conventional methods such as guns and bombs, but is becoming more decentralised, technology-driven, and harder to trace.

The rise of white-collar involvement is a key trend. Professionals with technical expertise are increasingly becoming part of these networks, making operations more efficient and less detectable. There is also growing involvement of women in support roles such as logistics, communication, and facilitation, often exploiting societal assumptions to avoid suspicion.

Another concern is the misuse of legitimate business platforms for extremist purposes, sometimes described as “corporate jihad.” A case involving a BPO in Nashik highlights how businesses can allegedly be used as fronts to channel funds, build networks, and provide operational cover, showing how such strategies are expanding beyond traditional methods.

Digital radicalisation is also playing a major role. Online propaganda, encrypted platforms, and targeted messaging are being used to recruit and influence vulnerable individuals, especially youth, making the threat more diffuse and long-term.

Pakistan’s evolving strategy

External financial support, including assistance from the International Monetary Fund, has given Pakistan economic breathing space. Its elevation to roles such as vice-chair of the United Nations Security Council counter-terrorism committee, along with its involvement in mediating tensions between the United States and Iran, has boosted its strategic confidence. Together, these factors have reduced external pressure and kept Pakistan in an upbeat mode, allowing its ISI to continue pursuing proxy activities against India. This makes it essential for Indian agencies to remain alert and prepared to respond to any emerging threats. At the same time, efforts to revive fault lines such as the Khalistani issue aim to create multiple pressure points within India. Recent incidents, including the explosion at a BJP office in Chandigarh, the blast outside the BSF headquarters in Jalandhar, and the exposure of ISI-linked modules in Punjab, reflect this trend. These activities are often supported by digital propaganda campaigns aimed at deepening divisions and shaping public perception.

Strengthening internal security

These developments point to a serious and evolving challenge. Terror networks are no longer on the margins; they are gradually embedding themselves within society. Recruitment is becoming more diverse, operations more technology-driven, and coordination more global, making the threat increasingly complex and difficult to predict.

In this context, India cannot afford complacency. The success of Operation Sindoor must be backed by a strong and adaptive internal security framework. Better inter-agency coordination, real-time intelligence sharing, and the use of advanced technology are essential for early detection. Quick-response systems, such as PRAHAAR-type frameworks, can ensure swift action when required. At the same time, addressing the root causes of radicalisation is crucial. Educating youth about extremism and misinformation can aid prevention. Basic awareness of internal security within school education can help build a more alert society. Promoting social harmony and inclusive development is equally important, as alienation is often exploited by extremist groups. The fight against terrorism is not only physical but also ideological, requiring strong counter-narratives.

Conclusion

Operation Sindoor has demonstrated that India possesses both the capability and resolve to act decisively against terror threats. However, the wave of arrests, emerging modules, and incidents like the suspicious surveillance devices near Delhi Cantt Railway Station reveal a deeper and more complex challenge. The threat is no longer distant or confined to borders; it is internal, networked, and constantly evolving. India’s challenge is not merely to respond to attacks, but to anticipate and prevent them.  In an era of hybrid terrorism, where external and internal threats are increasingly interconnected, constant vigilance and preparedness remain essential. Complacency is not an option.

The writer is former DGP Uttarakhand; Views presented are personal.