Following targeted strikes by Indian forces on terror hideouts during the night of May 6–7, the Pakistani army initiated heavy firing along the Line of Control (LoC). Most areas along the 788 km long LoC witnessed artillery shelling by Pakistan, especially in Poonch, Tangdhar, and nearby border villages. Eighteen civilians, including four children, lost their lives in the shelling. The Indian Army retaliated strongly with artillery fire. The exchange continued until around 4 a.m., with sporadic firing still being reported. The Indian military remains on full alert to handle any situation.
Civilians Shifted to Safer Locations
People living near the border have been moved to safer shelters. Authorities in Poonch district have established nine relief camps, equipped with food, accommodation, and medical facilities for affected residents.
Schools and Colleges Shut
Due to the ongoing crisis, all schools and colleges in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch districts remained closed. Shiromani Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal condemned the Pakistani army’s shelling of a gurdwara in Poonch, where three Sikhs were killed. Pakistan violated the ceasefire agreement by targeting religious places as well.
Shelling in Rajouri and Kupwara Too
The shelling wasn’t limited to Poonch. Border areas in Rajouri district and the Uri, Karnah, and Tangdhar sectors of Kupwara district also witnessed intense firing. Locals and officials described the shelling as brutal and cowardly.
Locals Fled for Safety
The shelling began around 2 a.m., damaging dozens of houses. The loud blasts woke residents, forcing many to flee and take shelter. A police officer monitoring the situation confirmed that Pakistan used heavy artillery and mortars to target densely populated civilian areas like Mankote, Mendhar, Thandi Kassi, and parts of Poonch city.
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Historic Sites Damaged
Uncontrolled shelling led to damage to homes, vehicles, and shops. Streets were strewn with debris and blood. Poonch’s historic fort and several ancient temples were also hit. An official remarked, “Targeting unarmed civilians is not bravery—it is an act of cowardice by Pakistan.”
Fear Spread Across the Region
Residents of Poonch city said the night was terrifying, with the sound of continuous shelling echoing through the region. Local resident Mohammad Zahid described the atmosphere as warlike, with injured people screaming for help and families desperately searching for safety. Scenes of destruction were visible everywhere.
Families Flee Homes
More than 150 residents of Dhaki village took shelter with relatives. Local resident Khurshid Ahmad said, “We didn’t expect this. We were lucky to survive. It’s best to leave for a safer place for now.” Shells also landed near the UN centre and Forest Department buildings in Poonch, causing heavy damage.
Children Among the Dead
Police reported that the five deceased included 10-year-old Mohammad Jain Khan and his 12-year-old sister Zoya Khan. In Mankote, a mortar shell hit the house of Kalasingh, killing his wife Balvinder Kaur and injuring their 13-year-old daughter. Forest department official Mohammad Sadiq said two of his colleagues were injured when a shell fell near their office. Many frightened residents fled in search of safety.
Locals Drive to Safety
Maqbool Ahmad, who left Poonch with his family in a private vehicle, said, “We are heading to a safer place. There is fear everywhere.” National Conference MLA Ajaz Jan called the situation alarming, while former J&K DGP S.P. Vaid condemned Pakistan’s shelling.