Poonch Under Fire: A Ground Report from the LoC
In the wake of India's Operation Sindoor, a series of targeted strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the Line of Control (LoC) has become a volatile battleground. The intensity of the subsequent shelling has brought the conflict to the doorstep of civilians, with the town of Poonch bearing the brunt of the cross-border fire.
The Situation in Poonch
Senior journalist Tarun Upadhyay, reporting from Jammu, paints a grim picture. He describes the situation in Poonch as "dire," with reports of heavy artillery fire causing unprecedented civilian casualties. Ten deaths were reported in Poonch town alone, a number confirmed unofficially by senior bureaucrats. Locals, according to Upadhyay, say they have never witnessed such intense shelling in their lifetimes. While small-arms fire along the LoC has been ongoing since April 22nd, the escalation to heavy artillery is a significant and terrifying development for the people of Poonch.
The shelling, according to Upadhyay, ceased in Poonch town about ten minutes before the interview, but continued along the LoC. Similar, though less intense, shelling was reported in areas like Mendar and Rajouri. Reports from Mendar vary, with official confirmation of one death, while some sources suggest up to three.
- Casualties: The official confirmation of casualty numbers from the Centre or Defence Ministry is still pending, but unofficial reports point to a significant toll.
- Fear and Panic: The atmosphere in Poonch is characterized by widespread panic, fear, and chaos amongst the local population.
- Unexpected Intensity: While residents along the LoC are accustomed to periodic firing, the sheer intensity and scale of the recent shelling were completely unexpected.
The shelling wasn't confined to the immediate LoC areas; it reached town centers, further exacerbating the fear and panic. The unusually high number of fatalities within the first night is also alarming, compared to the usual scattering of casualties over days or weeks. This unprecedented level of shelling in Poonch is a direct consequence of the heightened tensions following Operation Sindoor.
Displacement and Response
The escalating situation has prompted a mass exodus from some areas. Approximately 2,000 people have already left the Dutty area of Mendar, and many more are reportedly fleeing towards Jammu. Authorities are preparing for potential large-scale displacement, setting up shelter camps in various locations across the Poonch district, including Caramel School, Chandak, Dingla University Campus, and several schools and colleges. The administration assures that essential services like accommodation, food, and medical assistance will be provided.
In Jammu itself, authorities have been on high alert for several days. Troop mobilization is underway, with heavy artillery and tanks deployed to border areas, including Rajouri, Poonch, Arnia, Araspura, and Bishnah. Old bunkers are being reinforced, and residents near the International Border are moving inland. Educational institutions across Jammu have been closed as a precaution.
International Reactions and Aftermath
India's Operation Sindoor and Pakistan's subsequent shelling have drawn international attention. Several countries were briefed by India's National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval. Pakistan, meanwhile, has condemned the strikes and warned of retaliation. The international community, including China, has expressed concern and urged both countries to de-escalate the situation. The incident has also ignited widespread condemnation, especially following reports of civilian casualties and damage to a Gurdwara in Poonch. Many families have fled their homes, seeking refuge amid fears of further violence.
Conclusion
The situation in Poonch, and along the LoC more broadly, remains extremely tense and dangerous. The unprecedented shelling has caused significant loss of life and displacement. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor highlights the ongoing complexities and dangers of the India-Pakistan conflict and the devastating impact on innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. The international community's response, and the continued actions of both nations, will be crucial in determining the path ahead.
