‘I’m proud of the Indian Army and PM Modi for delivering justice. Pakistan has long backed terrorism—if needed, we should strike them directly too. Drills like Operation Abhyas are useful and educational. They’ll help us if a war-like situation arises'
The Central Railway civil defence wing conducts the drill at CSMT. Pic/Kirti Surve Parade
Monika Mehta, 29, housewife, Malad
‘I’m ‘happy with the strike on Bahawalpur. Pakistan has long sheltered terrorists. This was justice for the Pahalgam widows. It’s just the beginning—we need more such operations. And, Operation Abhyas was helpful. It should be routine. The timing after the strike was perfect.’
Sai, 30, software engineer, Bengaluru
‘I’m proud of the Indian Army and PM Modi for delivering justice. Pakistan has long backed terrorism—if needed, we should strike them directly too. Drills like Operation Abhyas are useful and educational. They’ll help us if a war-like situation arises.’
Nishi Divecha, 28, Vasai resident
‘This was a well-planned and necessary strike. Targeting the terror base was long overdue. India has shown its strength, and as citizens, we are proud of our armed forces and their precision. Also, instead of public drills, why not conduct training in schools and offices? Our forces are already trained—it’s the public that panics. Today’s drill felt more like a publicity stunt than an awareness drive. Just like fire safety drills are held in offices, similar drills should be conducted in workplaces for better impact.’
Pragati Fernandes, 28, assistant manager, Borivli
‘A bold step that brought justice to Pahalgam victims. It shows India won’t forgive or forget. But this isn’t over—there’s more to uncover, more justice to serve. I stand with our forces, with grief and pride. I didn’t see or hear the Operation Abhyas drill in my area. The government must install sirens and ensure all localities are covered.’
Siddharth Bhagat
‘As a young Indian, I feel a sense of justice. On April 22, terrorists sent a message; on May 7, the prime minister responded. This operation brings closure to the victims of the Pahalgam attack. We support our forces and the government’s firm stance in protecting the nation. I have no idea what I’m supposed to do during such situations. Along with Operation Abhyas-type drills, authorities must raise public awareness.’
Nitin Shah, businessman, Bhayandar
‘A proud moment for all Indians. A fitting response.’ ‘These drills shouldn’t be limited to crisis periods. They must be regular, with students actively participating.’
Teena Shah, 40, stockbroker, Andheri
‘The airstrike after the Pahalgam attack was justified. If the army had intel, they should act regularly. I support the strike, but mourn the 26 lives lost—it brings justice for them. The Operation Abhyas drill, following the strike, was timely. Such exercises must happen often to prepare for emergencies.’
Aparna Ghadigaonkar, 37, civil defence personnel
‘The operation sent a strong message: this is the new India—one that embraces ‘no tolerance’ over ‘no violence’. Hopefully, Pakistan gets the message that enough is enough. Drills like Operation Abhyas are essential, especially for home guards and civil defence staff. They also help inform the public about dos and don’ts in emergencies. The fact that they were telecast widely was a step in the right direction. The drill may have been necessary, but was it even noticed? Many Mumbaikars were caught up dealing with flooded roads, fallen trees, and train delays. I didn’t hear the siren, and neither did anyone I know.’
Ashutosh Revale, 27, Kandivli resident
‘This wasn’t revenge—it was justice for the innocent. India is often seen as overly diplomatic, but this proves we can strike hard when needed. What stands out is that our forces targeted terrorists, not civilians—unlike our neighbour. While the Operation Abhyas intent was good, it didn’t truly engage the public. The CSMT drill was well-executed, but the others lacked public participation. These exercises should also educate citizens, not just the forces.’
Nilesh Bhosale, 43, Chembur resident
‘In a region where perception shapes power, such operations have both strategic and psychological impact. While critics may debate the long-term consequences, for many Indians, this is a long-overdue reaffirmation that aggression will be met with action, not words. The Operation Abhyas drill was a very good initiative. It provides our security agencies with a realistic measure of civil defence preparedness. The next step should be spreading awareness among citizens about what actions to take during such emergencies.’
Sunny K, Chembur resident
‘Operation Sindoor is a proud moment. It showed our armed forces’ resolve. Kudos to Col. Sofiya Quereshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh—symbols of rising female leadership. India salutes its bravehearts. Hopefully, the Operation Abhyas drill helped authorities evaluate preparedness. Citizens also need to be informed and alert during such emergencies.’
Kunal Tripathi, Ghatkopar resident
‘A strong message—India is ready and resolute. Also, great to see the police and civil defence in action. Their presence makes the city feel safer. These drills reassure citizens and build public trust in our preparedness.’
Karan Sodha, 43, Ghatkopar resident
‘It was necessary to teach Pakistan a lesson. After the surgical and air strikes, there was some peace. But with tourists attacked, there must be no going back. Operation Abhyas is a good step. At least now we’ll have a sense of our preparedness in civil defence.’
Sushma Sheshrao Dhakane
Age: 30
Profession: Advocate, Resident of Karjat
Comment on Abhyas drill: "Today's mock drill was not just a formality, but a process that instilled a sense of life values and responsibility. All the systems worked in perfect coordination in this exercise. The readiness and discipline shown by the railway staff, security forces, fire brigade, healthcare services, and NGOs was definitely inspiring. We learned many things from this mock drill – the importance of time, the need to stay calm and make decisions, the spirit of coming together to help, and most importantly, the lesson that every life is precious, What is your response to the police parade and demonstration of civil defence at CSMT station and various parts of city.
Hazel D’Souza, 27, MNC employee, Vasai
‘A proud moment for India. This strike served justice to the nation. The Army showed our military strength by targeting terrorist bases.’
Aishwarya Iyer, 29, development sector specialist, Dombivli
‘The airstrike carries a symbolic and necessary message. No strike can undo grief, but I hope it dismantles the religious hatred behind such violence. Politically, this was a bold move by a government that needed to show assertiveness.’
Sanjana Iyer, 32, IT consultant, Mumbai
‘Immensely proud of our forces. We sensed something was coming—Operation Sindoor was a powerful response. India has made it clear: terrorism won’t be tolerated.”
Jagruti Katkar, 32, journalist, Pune
‘I cried watching the grieving families, especially knowing two victims were from Pune. This operation brought closure without escalating the situation—a strong, calm response.’
Ninad Agaskar, Mulund resident
‘I’m proud of the strike. This wasn’t aggression—it was a counterstrike. Terrorism must be uprooted.’
Kunal Ghadge, 30, engineer, Navi Mumbai
‘I feel immense pride in our armed forces. In tense times, we must stay informed, avoid rumours, and remain united.’
Girija O, 35, private sector employee
‘I found the retaliation lacking in depth. Experts have suggested better options, like targeting the masterminds rather than just terror camps. With global support, India could pressure other nations to cut off Pakistan’s funding, especially since it’s been on the FATF grey list since 2018. Cutting off aid could hurt Pakistan more than a military strike. Also, the scale and impact of this attack don’t match’
Athletes React
“Fearless in unity. Boundless in strength. India's shield is her people.
There's no room for terrorism in this world. We're One Team! Jai Hind.”
Sachin Tendulkar on X
“Jai Hind. #OperationSindoor is Bharat's response to the brutal killing of our innocent brothers in Pahalgam,”
Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh on X
“The Indian Armed Forces turned adversity into a powerful Fateh moment. Their courage and valor in the face of danger have made us all proud. Jai hind.”
Indian pacer Mohammed Shami on Instagram
“India's zero tolerance towards terrorism!! Jai Hind - Jai Jawan #sindoor.”
Olympic medal-winning wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt
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