Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], May 9 (ANI): Amid the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Friday said that India is strong and will 'cut Pakistan to size' and eradicate terrorism.

Speaking to reporters after participating in 'Jai Hind Tiranga' march from K R Circle to Minsk Square, Shivkumar said, 'The country is capable of handling strikes from Pakistan. India will cut Pakistan to size this time, just like during Indira Gandhi's tenure.'

When asked about the Tiranga march, Shivkumar said that the aim was to support our armed forces.

Shivkumar said, 'Our soldiers are fighting for our country. We have organised this march to support our armed forces and the Union government. We had invited people from all sections of society. The march was well received as people participated in large numbers.'

Asked if the time was ripe to put an end to terrorism, he said, 'Our armed forces are hitting back appropriately. They have hoisted the Indian flag high and we are very proud of them and would like to support them in all possible ways.'

The Tiranga march was led by CM Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar. Over 10,000 people participated in the march holding the national flag.

The Pakistani army carried out multiple airspace violations and drone intrusions on the night of May 7 and 8, targeting Indian military infrastructure.

Addressing a press briefing on Friday, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi revealed that 300 to 400 drones were deployed across 36 locations, with several being shot down by Indian forces using both kinetic and non-kinetic methods. Initial investigations suggest the drones were Turkish-made Asisguard Songar models.

She added, 'The Indian armed forces shot down many of these drones using kinetic and non-kinetic means. The possible purpose of such large-scale aerial intrusions was to test air defence systems and collect intelligence. Forensic investigation of the wreckage of the drones is being done. Initial reports suggest that they are Turkish Asisguard Songar drones...'

Pakistan's retaliation came in the wake of India's Operation Sindoor, where the Indian armed forces targeted nine terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on Wednesday.

The Operation Sindoor was a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. (ANI)