The Pakistan Army delivered a strong and immediate counterstrike in response to unprovoked firing by Indian forces along the Line of Control (LoC), according to security sources on Sunday.
Indian troops reportedly opened fire on multiple Pakistani military posts across various sectors, including Nakyal, Khoi Ratta, Sharda, Kel, Neelum, and Haji Pir. The Pakistan Army retaliated with precision, targeting the origin of the Indian assaults.
Security officials confirmed that the Pakistan Army remains fully alert and resolute in its commitment to respond decisively to any form of aggression. The development underscores the rising tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
In Indian-administered Kashmir, the situation has triggered fear and anxiety among residents. In the village of Churanda, surrounded by mountains, teachers led children in morning prayers, hoping for peace instead of artillery fire. Despite holding regular classes, teacher Farooq Ahmad noted that anxiety among parents was increasing following the recent deadly attack on tourists.
Suspected militants killed at least 26 people in last week’s assault on a mountain resort. India has accused Pakistan of involvement, an allegation Islamabad denies. Pakistan has claimed to possess credible intelligence suggesting that India may be planning military action.
Villagers in Churanda can visibly see both Indian and Pakistani soldiers stationed at their respective posts. Over the years, at least 18 people have died in the village due to cross-border firing. “There are only six bunkers for 1,500 people. Both sides are issuing threats. If conflict erupts again, where will we go?” asked Abdul Aziz, a 25-year-old local resident.
On the Pakistani-administered side, residents of Chakothi village are also bracing for escalation. Fortified shelters are scattered across the hillsides. “People retreat to the bunkers whenever firing begins,” said Faizan Anayat, a technician visiting his hometown from Rawalpindi.
Mohammad Nazir, a 73-year-old resident, paused his bunker preparations to attend Friday prayers at a nearby mosque while children played cricket outside. “We are not afraid. Our youth are ready,” he said with resolve.
In Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, authorities have established a PKR 1 billion ($3.5 million) emergency fund and sent enough food, water, and medical supplies to border villages to last two months.
Religious seminaries in the region have been closed for ten days due to concerns they might be targeted by potential Indian strikes. Emergency repair crews and civil defense personnel have been mobilized, while rescue services remain on high alert, according to the Prime Minister’s office of the region.
The Pakistan Red Crescent Society has also activated its emergency protocols. According to its Kashmir chapter head, Gulzar Fatima, relief camps are being prepared to accommodate potential mass displacement, equipped with tents, hygiene kits, and cooking facilities for at least 500 families.
