Pak Army Continues Cross-Border Firing for Fifth Day; Indian Troops Retaliate Effectively
In yet another ceasefire violation, the Pakistan Army opened unprovoked fire at multiple points along the LoC in J&K, prompting swift Indian retaliation.
Tensions escalated along the Line of Control (LoC) on Monday night as the Pakistan Army resorted to unprovoked small arms firing at multiple locations in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara, Baramulla, and Akhnoor sectors.
Indian troops responded in a “measured and effective manner,” defence officials said, ensuring no significant civilian casualties while maintaining high alert along the sensitive frontier.
This marks the fifth consecutive day of ceasefire violations by Pakistan, coinciding with increased tensions following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. India has blamed Pakistan-based terrorist groups for the assault.
“Pakistan’s repeated provocations will not go unanswered,” an Indian Army source said, adding that frontline units have been directed to respond firmly but responsibly.
April has witnessed a notable surge in cross-border ceasefire violations, with at least seven incidents reported post-Pahalgam attack. Indian forces have been instructed to maintain high operational readiness and prevent escalation while protecting civilian populations near the LoC.
Traffic movement along some border roads was briefly suspended as a precaution, local police said, but normalcy was restored within hours.
In response to Pakistan’s alleged role in fostering cross-border terrorism, India has taken a series of diplomatic and economic steps. These include:
- Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty
- Cancellation of visas issued to Pakistani citizens, including under the SAARC scheme
- Downsizing of diplomatic missions in Islamabad and New Delhi
- Closure of key border crossings at Attari and Octroi
- Reinforcement of military deployments along the international border and LoC
Officials stressed that while India remains committed to peace, it retains the right to defend itself against continued aggression.