The Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir has been severely affected by recent cross-border shelling from the Pakistan Army, leading to a tragic loss of life and widespread panic among residents of border villages. On Wednesday, at least 15 civilians, including children, were killed, and 43 others sustained injuries as artillery shells rained down following Indian forces’ precision strikes on terror bases in Pakistan as part of “Operation Sindoor.” This military operation was initiated in response to an earlier terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which had claimed 26 civilian lives.
The shelling began late at night on May 6-7 and predominantly impacted the Poonch district. Among the fatalities were individuals from various age groups, with many of the injured reported to be in critical condition. Local infrastructure suffered significant damage, including residential homes and public facilities. Residents reported that the night was marked by chaos and fear, with Abdul Husain, a local villager, voicing concerns over the incomplete construction of promised bunkers intended for protection.
In light of the escalating violence, Indian authorities decided to close all educational institutions across several districts, including Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch, with Kashmir University postponing examinations for safety reasons. The violence appears to be part of a growing pattern, with this incident marking the 13th consecutive night of ceasefire violations since India briefly suspended the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam attack.
Higher tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) have reignited fears of a larger conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations. Nevertheless, Indian security forces maintain a heightened state of readiness, remaining vigilant against further escalations.
This situation underscores the fragile peace that has existed in the region and calls for immediate diplomatic efforts to address the ongoing conflict. As communities in the Poonch district seek safety and security, there is hope that a return to dialogue and a commitment to ceasefire can mitigate further suffering among the affected populations.