Retired Indian Army official Lieutenant General KJS Dhillon recently delivered sharp criticism directed at Pakistans Army Chief, General Asim Munir, regarding his conduct during Indias Operation Sindoor. Dhillon alleged that during the critical phase of this Indian military operation, General Munir sought refuge by hiding in a bunker—a move Dhillon described as an act of avoidance amid escalating conflict. Furthermore, Dhillon pointed out that Munir elevated himself to the rare rank of Field Marshal shortly after the operation, a step he interprets as an effort to escape public scrutiny and political accountability.

Operation Sindoor was launched by India in response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. The operation entailed precise and impactful strikes on terror infrastructure within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, leading to significant material damage to Pakistani military assets including the shooting down of several Pakistan Air Force jets. According to Dhillon, the operation marked a strategic and military success for India, underscored by the inability of Pakistan’s air defense to intercept Indias missile strikes.

Dhillon also criticized the unique political status of General Munir, noting that he is the only Pakistan Army chief known to simultaneously hold the rank of Field Marshal, accompany the head of state to international fora such as the SCO summit, and be hosted by the U.S. President for lunch. He framed these points as reflections of Pakistan’s deep civil-military entanglement, implying an unhealthy dominance of the military over political structures in the country.

Adding to his critique, Dhillon highlighted Pakistan Army’s historical record, mentioning it as the only army worldwide to have never won a war since World War II, pointing to the 1971 war where over 93,000 Pakistani troops surrendered. He contrasted this with India’s rising military and economic strength, referring to a New India that commands greater respect on the global stage, able to carry out decisive action without facing international condemnation, much like the U.S. raid on Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad.

Dhillon’s commentary reflects a broader narrative of India projecting growing confidence and capability, both militarily and economically, while critiquing the leadership and morale within Pakistans military ranks during conflict escalation. This episode also underscores the intricate link between military leadership and political power in Pakistan, as well as the high stakes and sensitivities that continue to define Indo-Pak relations. His remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the true impact of Operation Sindoor and its implications for future Indo-Pak military engagements, emphasizing the importance of both strategic response and narrative management in modern warfare.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from The Economic Times.