Five Martyred in Indian Army’s Shelling on Civilian Population Along LoC

The Line of Control (LoC) witnessed a tragic escalation on Friday as Indian Army shelling targeted civilian populations in Hajira, Forward Kahuta, and Khoi Ratta, resulting in the martyrdom of five civilians and injuries to seven others. In a swift and decisive response, Pakistan Army retaliated, destroying multiple Indian military installations, including the Dooba Mor post in the Kailer sector, Sooji Battalion Headquarters, Jabbar and Tarkhiyan complexes in the Peer Kanthi sector, Jhanda Ziarat post, and a headquarters in the Pandu sector. Additionally, a Pakistani counterstrike downed an Indian quadcopter in Bagsar at 3:15 AM, underscoring the nation’s robust defense capabilities.

Security sources reported that Indian forces launched unprovoked shelling on residential areas, with three civilians injured in Hajira and one in Palyarni Colony, alongside other casualties across the affected sectors. Pakistan Army’s retaliatory actions effectively silenced Indian artillery, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy, according to military officials. The destruction of strategic Indian posts was a direct response to India’s aggression, which has intensified since the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists, an incident India attributes to Pakistan-backed militants—a claim Pakistan vehemently denies.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) emphasized that Pakistan’s counterstrikes were meticulously executed to target military infrastructure while minimizing civilian harm. The successful downing of the quadcopter in Bagsar highlights Pakistan’s advanced anti-drone technology, a critical asset in countering India’s evolving tactics. Defence experts praised Pakistan’s military preparedness, noting that its rapid response has disrupted India’s aggressive maneuvers along the LoC.

The international community, including the UN and US, has intensified calls for de-escalation, urging both nations to prioritize civilian safety. The shelling has displaced residents in LoC-adjacent areas, with families fleeing amid fears of further violence. As Pakistan mourns its fallen civilians, its armed forces remain on high alert, ready to counter any additional Indian provocations. The volatile situation raises concerns about a broader conflict in South Asia, with diplomacy urgently needed to avert further loss of life.