10 Civilians Killed, 20 Injured in Heavy Pakistani Shelling Along LoC
10 civilians were killed and at least 20 injured after intense shelling by Pakistan along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch and Rajouri districts, officials said.
Amid heightened cross-border tensions following India’s pre-dawn strikes on terror camps under Operation Sindoor, Pakistani forces launched heavy mortar attacks on several forward villages. The shelling, which began early Wednesday, targeted areas in Krishna Ghati, Shahpur, and Mankote in Poonch, as well as Laam, Manjakote, and Gambeer Brahmana in Rajouri.
According to official sources, the attacks resulted in the deaths of eight civilians, while 25 others sustained injuries, many of whom are in critical condition. Rescue and medical teams have been rushed to the affected areas.
In response to the provocation, Indian forces retaliated with targeted shelling. A senior defence official stated, “We are responding strongly and effectively. Civilians have been advised to stay indoors in vulnerable areas.”
Meanwhile, the Border Security Force (BSF) has been placed on high alert along the western front, anticipating further escalations. “All forward posts are on maximum readiness,” said a BSF spokesperson.
The shelling follows India’s airstrikes on nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which were conducted in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
Pakistan has since responded with aggressive posturing, accusing India of provocation while denying accountability for terror operations originating from its soil.
Home and Defence Ministries are monitoring the situation in real-time, coordinating with local authorities for civilian safety and strategic responses. A senior official said “The safety of our citizens is paramount. All necessary steps are being taken.”
