Referring to putting the names of six soldiers, who lost their lives during Operation Sindoor, at the National War Memorial, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said that the engraving of their names was done as per a “sacred” process.“An established and well-defined protocol governs this process, and the defence forces follow these laid-down procedures with due diligence, care and reverence, commensurate with the solemnity of the honour being conferred. Any suggestion that due process was not followed is factually incorrect,” the Ministry of Defence said.The ministry stated that the death of the soldiers during Operation Sindoor was acknowledged immediately after the operation. It added that it was regrettable that an avoidable and unfounded controversy had arisen around this issue.It further said, “The Indian defence forces remains steadfast in its commitment to honouring every soldier who has offered supreme sacrifice in the defence of the nation.”“The six bravehearts of Operation Sindoor are national heroes, whose courage, devotion to duty and sacrifice will continue to inspire generations of Indians. Their memory shall always be honoured with the dignity, gratitude and reverence it deserves,” the ministry added.The MoD said reports circulating in sections of the media and on social media platforms had incorrectly suggested that the supreme sacrifice of six bravehearts during Operation Sindoor had been acknowledged or brought to public notice for the first time only recently.The Tribune had reported in its edition dated June 26 that the names, ranks and regiments of the all bravehearts had been revealed publically by putting their details at the National War Memorial.The ministry clarified that the nation paid homage to these fallen heroes at the earliest opportunity. During the official press conference held on May 11, 2025, then Director General of Military Operations had paid solemn tribute to these brave soldiers and specifically acknowledged their sacrifice in the line of duty during Operation Sindoor.This constituted a formal and national recognition of their valour and supreme sacrifice in keeping with the highest traditions of the Indian defence forces. Simultaneously, the Indian Army’s official social media platforms carried tributes to these bravehearts without delay.