On Friday, India accused Pakistan of using civilian aircraft as cover for conducting large-scale drone attacks over three consecutive nights, targeting Indian cities, civilian infrastructure, and some military sites. Indian officials described Pakistan’s actions as reckless, citing its failure to close civilian airspace, thus endangering international and domestic flights near the border.

India further alleged that Pakistan deliberately targeted places of worship—such as temples, gurdwaras, and convents—with the aim of stirring communal unrest, calling it a new low even for Islamabad. After India disclosed that 300–400 Turkish-made drones had been launched by Pakistan on the night of May 8–9, drones were reported across 26 locations from Baramulla in the north to Bhuj in the south. These included suspected armed drones, posing threats to civilian and military targets. Indian forces responded by deploying counter-drone systems and launched retaliatory strikes on four Pakistani air defence sites, destroying a radar installation. Meanwhile, Pakistani shelling across the Line of Control resulted in Indian casualties.

In light of the escalating situation, the Indian Premier League was delayed by a week, and the Confederation of Indian Industry postponed its annual general meeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a high-level meeting with top defence and security officials, while Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman directed banks to tighten cyber defences.

At a military briefing, officials revealed Pakistan’s drone incursions at 36 locations along the border and said the goal appeared to be testing Indian air defences and gathering intelligence. The drones, identified as Turkish Songar quadrotors, included one neutralized near the Bathinda military base. India emphasized its right to respond and condemned Pakistan’s alleged disinformation efforts, including false claims about attacks on religious sites like Nankana Sahib. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri dismissed Pakistan’s denials as deceitful and accused Islamabad of intentionally fueling communal tension.

In diplomatic outreach, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar spoke with counterparts from the U.S., U.K., and Norway. The government also reassured the public about food supplies and warned against hoarding. In a related update, World Bank President Ajay Banga clarified that the organization has no role beyond that of facilitator in the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan.