The Misconception of Surgical Strikes: India’s Operation POK Revisited
The Misconception of Surgical Strikes: India’s Operation POK Revisited
The recent military operation codenamed POK by India has reignited discussions about the term 'surgical strike.' A surgical strike, as understood by military practitioners, is a precise and well-controlled offensive operation aimed at minimal collateral damage. However, the recent operations in Kashmir involve a different set of considerations and actions.
Understanding the Term "Surgical"
The term surgical in a military context refers to an operation conducted with a specific goal, performed expertly, and in a largely controlled environment. Post-operation, the military typically withdraws. This definition, however, is not universally accepted in the Indian military terminology.
Evaluation of Recent Actions in Kashmir
The event of the day before yesterday brought to question whether the recent actions can rightly be termed as a surgical strike. Let's break down the key components:
tGoal: The official statements from the GOI or Army do not specify a clear goal for the action. tExpertise and Control: While heavy artillery was used, the firing was not precise, suggesting a less controlled operation. tGiven this evaluation, many argue that the recent operations do not fit the criteria of a surgical strike. Instead, they are more appropriately described as a border skirmish involving the use of heavy artillery.
If the specific mention is about the three camps or launch pads targeted by Indian artillery, it is important to note that this was a preventive action initiated based on reliable intelligence about terrorist activities. Such actions are part of defensive measures rather than surgical strikes.
What Constitutes a Surgical Strike?
A true surgical strike targets legitimate military installations or objectives with minimal collateral damage to surrounding structures, vehicles, buildings, or public infrastructure. The term 'surgical strike' has been grossly misused and is not part of the Indian military's standard terminology.
The first surgical strike in Indian military history was an Raid, which involved a small, swift penetration of hostile territory to secure information, confuse the enemy, or destroy installations. The operation ended with a planned withdrawal.
The second surgical strike was an AIR RAID, which refers to an attack by armed airplanes on a surface target. There has been no third surgical strike in the military context.
The recent operations along the Line of Control (LC) are being glorified by the media, possibly as a political maneuver prior to elections.
Conclusion
The term 'surgical strike' continues to be a point of contention in the context of recent military actions in Kashmir. It is crucial to understand the precise military operations and their intentions to accurately assess the actions taken.
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