Intense shelling in Poonch, following India's Operation Sindoor, caused significant civilian casualties and displacement, escalating tensions along the LoC and prompting international concern.


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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.

FAQ

Intense shelling following India's Operation Sindoor has caused significant civilian casualties and displacement in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, escalating tensions along the Line of Control (LoC).

Information regarding the specifics of 'Operation Sindoor' is limited in available sources; however, it seems this operation preceded the shelling in Poonch and is related to the current India-Pakistan conflict.

The exact number of civilian casualties in the Poonch shelling is still being assessed, but reports indicate significant losses and displacement. More information will be available as the situation unfolds.

The shelling has led to a humanitarian crisis. Civilians have suffered casualties, injuries, and displacement, creating a need for urgent humanitarian aid and refugee support.

The international community is expressing concern over the escalating violence and the humanitarian crisis in Poonch, urging all parties to de-escalate and ensure the safety of civilians.

Poonch is located in the Jammu and Kashmir region, near the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan, making it a particularly vulnerable area to cross-border conflict.

The Line of Control (LoC) is a military control line separating the Indian-administered and Pakistani-administered territories of the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir.

Urgent humanitarian aid is needed, including medical supplies, food, shelter, and support for displaced persons. International assistance is crucial to address the unfolding refugee crisis.

You can donate to reputable international aid organizations working on the ground in the region or advocate for increased international support and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The shelling in Poonch highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, with the conflict along the Line of Control (LoC) posing a significant threat to regional stability and causing immense suffering for civilians.

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