Asim Munir Ghazwa-e-Hind Claim: Jaish Commander Links Pakistan Army Chief to Operation Sindoor Narrative

A senior commander associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed has made a controversial claim alleging that Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir described India’s Operation Sindoor as “Ghazwa-e-Hind”, a term often used by extremist groups to frame conflict in religious terms. The remarks, reportedly delivered during a gathering in Rawalkot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, have intensified scrutiny over the relationship between Pakistan’s military leadership and militant organisations.

According to details emerging from the speech, the commander addressed a gathering of cadres and new recruits, presenting the confrontation with India as a religiously driven conflict. The statement referenced military escalation during Operation Sindoor and portrayed it as part of a larger ideological struggle. The speech has since triggered debate among security observers, who view such rhetoric as an attempt to reinforce extremist narratives and attract new supporters.

Operation Sindoor was launched by India in May 2025 following a deadly attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. Indian authorities described the operation as a targeted counter-terror response aimed at dismantling launch pads, training centres and operational networks located across the border. New Delhi has consistently maintained that the strikes were calibrated and focused on neutralising infrastructure used to plan attacks against India.

The alleged remarks by the Jaish commander also highlighted the organisation’s continued emphasis on jihad as its core objective. The speech reportedly urged followers to remain committed to militant goals regardless of political developments, reinforcing concerns about ongoing recruitment and radicalisation efforts in the region.

Security analysts note that such public statements reflect a broader pattern in which militant leaders use large gatherings and speeches to shape narratives around India-Pakistan tensions. Indian officials have long argued that open glorification of armed activity and the visible presence of militant figures at events in Pakistan underline an ecosystem that allows extremist networks to operate with relative freedom.

The controversy comes at a time of heightened regional sensitivity, with geopolitical tensions, cross-border incidents and ongoing debates around counter-terrorism strategies dominating headlines. Experts warn that framing conflicts through ideological or religious language risks escalating hostility and complicating diplomatic engagement.

While the claims remain part of ongoing information battles between stakeholders in the region, the episode underscores the persistent challenges faced by security agencies in addressing extremist messaging. Analysts believe that such narratives not only aim to influence local audiences but also shape international perceptions of the conflict.

As India continues to emphasise a zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism, statements like these are likely to fuel further discussions around accountability, cross-border militancy and the evolving dynamics of South Asian security.