Poonch, May 4:
In another ceasefire violation, Pakistani troops indulged in unprovoked small arms firing on Indian forward positions in the Poonch sector of Jammu and Kashmir early Saturday morning. The Indian Army struck back quickly and hard, eliminating the threat and preventing any damage or casualties on the Indian side.
As per defence officials, the exchange of fire started at around 5:30 AM in the Krishna Ghati sector, an area where there have been numerous ceasefire violations in the past. Indian security forces posted in the area fired back with precision, compelling the Pakistani side to stop firing after a very brief but furious exchange.
"This is another instance of Pakistan efforts to agitate peace along LoC. Our troops reacted in a calibrated and efficient way. No casualty or property loss has been reported on our side," stated an Army officer based in Jammu.
Possible Infiltration Bid Foiled
Sources suggest that the unprovoked firing may have been a cover for an attempted infiltration by terrorist groups operating from launch pads across the border. Surveillance equipment and night vision imagery have indicated suspicious movement near the LoC, raising alarms among the Indian security establishment.
"Timing and location of the firing obviously indicate that it might have been intended to enable the movement of armed militants across the border," a source further added. "But our troops are well-trained and have successfully foiled such attempts in the past."
Increasing Worries Over Ceasefire Violations
This encounter is a serious violation of the February 2021 India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement, which was intended to bring down tensions along the LoC. Although both countries had pledged to preserve peace, various such incidents have been reported in the last one year, indicating doubt about whether Pakistan is sincere about maintaining the truce.
Defence experts caution that these recurrent incidents can heighten tensions even more. "Pakistan keeps insisting on using ceasefire violations as a tactic to drive terrorists into Indian territory. The Indian Army has to remain in high operational readiness, particularly in sensitive areas such as Poonch and Rajouri," stated Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain.
Civilian Population on Alert
The incident has also created fear among the civilian population residing in border villages. While there were no reports of civilian casualties, local authorities have asked residents to stay indoors and not indulge in unnecessary movement around vulnerable points.
"Schools have been directed to keep the educational institutions closed for the day in villages near the LoC as a precautionary measure," said an official of the district administration.
India Renews Its Resolve For Peace
Irrespective of provocation, Indian defense forces reiterated their pledge of ensuring peace and stability in the region. Still, they ensured that any steps to infringe on national sovereignty would be tackled with a sturdy and proportionate response.
Official statement from the Ministry of External Affairs is awaited, though diplomatic sources are going to bring it up with Islamabad in the near future.
