New Delhi: India and Pakistan held Director General of Military Operations (DGMO)-level talks via hotline on Monday, following their agreement on a ceasefire brokered with U.S. intervention. The discussions, which lasted for approximately an hour, marked the first formal military dialogue between the two nations since India’s retaliatory strikes under Operation Sindoor.
Lieutenant General Rajeev Ghai represented India in the talks, while Major General Kashif Chaudhary took part on behalf of Pakistan. Originally scheduled for noon, the talks were delayed and took place in the evening. According to defence sources, the agenda covered ceasefire implementation, de-escalation of border tensions, and developments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
ALSO READ: PM Modi Asserts India’s Unyielding Stance on POK
The high-level interaction follows India’s airstrikes on nine terror launchpads across the Line of Control under Operation Sindoor—conducted in response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack. In retaliation, Pakistan reportedly carried out cross-border shelling targeting civilian areas, further escalating tensions.
Amid mounting international concern, particularly from Washington, both nations agreed on May 10 to a ceasefire restoration, paving the way for Monday’s DGMO dialogue.
“Our Fight Is Against Terrorists, Not Civilians”: Indian Military
Earlier in the day, India’s tri-services leadership held a joint press conference, clarifying the scope and intent behind Operation Sindoor. The armed forces emphasised that the offensive was aimed solely at terrorist groups and those providing them logistical support.
“We are fighting terrorism, not civilians. Pakistan is projecting the operation as an attack on its sovereignty because it continues to provide safe havens to terrorists,” defence officials stated, adding that any damage or consequences arising from the operation are Pakistan’s responsibility.
The DGMO-level dialogue is seen as a key step in restoring stability along the border and preventing further military escalation.