JAMMU, India — Residents of Jammu experienced a shocking onset of violence as multiple explosions rocked the city, causing widespread panic and a prolonged power outage. This disturbance unfolded amidst escalating tensions along the Line of Control (LoC), where India and Pakistan have intensified cross-border shelling.
Reports indicate a grim toll of at least 48 dead, including 32 individuals in Pakistan, following India’s missile strikes on purported “terrorist camps” on Wednesday. The ensuing hostilities have seen Pakistan respond with its own artillery fire, escalating the conflict between the two nations.
Amid the chaos, Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar refuted allegations of his country’s involvement in the attacks, asserting that no targets within Indian-administered Kashmir were targeted. “These claims are politically motivated and are part of a deliberate strategy aimed at maligning Pakistan,” he stated.
The explosions in Jammu caught many by surprise, with local journalist Zafar Choudhary describing the events as “unprecedented.” He noted that although the sounds of conflict have subsided and electricity has begun to return, the aftermath of fear persists in the community. Sirens were heard resonating through Jammu and surrounding villages, highlighting the conflict’s intensifying nature, as reported by journalist Umar Meraj.
Multiple locations in Jammu, including Akhnoor and Samba, reportedly faced bombardments as civilian casualties increased. One significant voice of concern came from former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, who expressed deep distress over the situation, stating her solidarity with the people impacted by the violence.
The escalation has provoked a series of counterclaims. Pakistan’s military reported shooting down 29 Indian drones that violated its airspace amid repeated cross-border military operations. Pakistani authorities insisted that no military positions were damaged following Indian drone strikes, while claims of Indian military losses remain unverified.
Compounding these tensions is a statement from Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who emphasized his country’s exercise of “strategic restraint” while insisting on the right to respond to aggression at a time of its choosing. Conversely, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri warned that any further military action from Pakistan would be viewed as an escalation of the conflict.
Recent events come in the wake of a fatal attack in Kashmir two weeks ago, which killed 26 individuals and for which India held Pakistan responsible—an accusation vehemently denied by Islamabad. Analysts suggest that both nations are precariously positioned, as the potential for further military action looms amid international calls for de-escalation.
As the situation develops, air travel in northern India has been significantly impacted, with 20 airports closing until further notice. This move poses challenges for commercial activity and travel in the region.
While diplomatic contacts have reportedly resumed between the national security advisers of India and Pakistan, fears remain that the escalating conflict could spiral into a wider confrontation. Observers note that both countries are under immense pressure to assert their positions while also seeking potential avenues for dialogue amid ongoing military hostilities.