NuzTube INDIA
Golden Temple Lights Switched Off for First Time as Indian Army Deploys Air Defence Guns to Counter Drone Threats from Pakistan
In a remarkable and unprecedented event during Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army, with the cooperation of the Golden Temple authorities, deployed air defence guns within the sacred premises of the shrine in Amritsar to neutralize drone and missile threats originating from Pakistan. This extraordinary step included switching off the lights of the Golden Temple—an action taken for the first time in its history—to facilitate effective identification and interception of enemy drones.
Lt General Sumer Ivan D’Cunha, Director General of the Army Air Defence, revealed this key development in an interview with ANI. The decision, he explained, was driven by Pakistan’s attempts to provoke confusion and internal chaos by targeting civilian and religious sites in India after India’s counter-terror operations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Punjab province.
“Fortunately, we anticipated their intention. Realizing that Pakistan had no legitimate military targets across the border, we foresaw their likely attempt to target civilian areas and religious landmarks like the Golden Temple,” said Lt Gen D’Cunha.
Recognizing the symbolic and spiritual significance of the Golden Temple, a revered monument visited by lakhs of devotees daily, the Indian Army acted with caution and coordination. The Head Granthi of the shrine played a crucial role in facilitating the Army’s operation. Upon being briefed about the threat level, the shrine’s management agreed to turn off all temple lights and allowed deployment of air defence artillery.
Lt Gen D’Cunha acknowledged this cooperation with respect and gratitude. “It was indeed generous and visionary of the Head Granthi to support the Army’s mission. For the first time in many years, the Golden Temple lights were turned off. This allowed our personnel to see the enemy drones against the night sky clearly and respond effectively,” he said.
The drone threat became more acute following India’s precise counter-terror strikes, which prompted Pakistan to retaliate by launching a barrage of missiles and drones across the border regions—from Jammu and Kashmir down to Gujarat. Amritsar was one of the hardest-hit areas between May 7 and May 10, with multiple drones attempting to cross into Indian territory.
To prepare for potential escalations, local blackouts were ordered, including the unprecedented power down of the Golden Temple complex. This enhanced the visibility and tracking of low-flying drones, enabling the Army’s air defence units to intercept and neutralize the threats before they reached their targets.
“The Golden Temple hierarchy realized the seriousness of the situation once we briefed them. They gave us the green light to install our guns and operate within the temple grounds—something never done before,” Lt Gen D’Cunha explained.
He further added, “Switching off the lights gave us clearer visibility in the night sky. As drones don’t emit light, this allowed us to immediately spot any foreign object and act quickly. This small act played a big role in protecting a monument of international repute and preserving public safety.”
During the four-day confrontation, the Indian Army successfully foiled nearly all drone attacks launched by Pakistan, thereby preventing major casualties or damage. The operation concluded with a ceasefire understanding reached between India and Pakistan on May 10.
Operation Sindoor has thus marked a new chapter in modern Indian warfare, where religious cooperation, national security, and community protection merged in a time of crisis. The Indian Army’s initiative, combined with the Golden Temple management’s swift and selfless support, became a symbolic and strategic stand against cross-border terrorism.
As drone warfare becomes an increasing threat in global conflict scenarios, the event stands as an example of coordinated defence that respects spiritual values while addressing national security concerns.
This mission also reinforces the message that religious sanctity and national security can coexist—guided by mutual understanding, respect, and a shared commitment to peace and protection.
In a time of mounting geopolitical tension, India’s ability to mobilize its resources, armed forces, and civil institutions together reflects a robust and resilient defence posture, built on both tradition and modern vigilance.
Note : NuzTube INDIA does not write this article, This article is from a syndicate feed.
