The ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan has escalated following India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine key terror hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was a response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people, primarily tourists. In retaliation, Pakistan engaged in heavy shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the loss of six civilian lives and injuries to over 30. The shelling occurred in the early hours of May 7, 2025, and was met with equal retaliation by the Indian Army, resulting in heightened tensions across the border.

Pakistan’s Indiscriminate Shelling: Civilian Casualties and Destruction

As a result of the unprovoked shelling by Pakistani forces, which continued throughout the night, six civilians were killed, and more than 30 were injured. The shelling occurred in several districts, including Poonch, Kupwara, and Baramulla. Among the deceased was a woman from Mankote in Poonch, whose house was hit by a mortar shell. Her 13-year-old daughter was injured. As shelling intensified, people in affected areas were forced to take shelter in underground bunkers, and the Srinagar airport was temporarily closed for air traffic. Indian authorities reported damage to homes and shops, and educational institutions in border regions were shut for the day.

Indian Retaliation: ‘Calibrated Response’ to Pakistani Firing

In response to Pakistan’s shelling, the Indian Army carried out missile strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and PoK as part of Operation Sindoor. The targets included Bahawalpur, a major stronghold of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror outfit, and other sites linked to LeT and Hizbul Mujahideen. India’s retaliation was described as calibrated and proportionate, with the Indian Army emphasizing that the strikes focused only on dismantling terror infrastructure, avoiding escalation into full-scale conflict. Indian officials confirmed that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted in these strikes.

Cross-Border Ceasefire Violations: Pakistan’s Continued Aggression

The ongoing shelling represents the 13th consecutive night of unprovoked firing by Pakistan, despite a ceasefire agreement between the two nations since February 2021. Starting with small arms fire in Kupwara and Baramulla districts, the Pakistani forces expanded their violations to multiple sectors, including Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu. This increased firing was seen as an attempt by Pakistan to escalate tensions and provoke further military responses from India. However, Indian sources continue to stress their measured approach in responding to these provocations.

A Heightened Risk of Conflict and Continued Vigilance

Operation Sindoor and the subsequent shelling underscore the ongoing volatility along the India-Pakistan border. While India has shown restraint in selecting targets during its retaliatory strikes, the Pakistan Army’s continued shelling has led to civilian casualties and forced widespread disruptions in Jammu and Kashmir. Both sides appear to be preparing for further escalation, with military officials on high alert. As tensions continue to mount, the situation remains fluid, with both nations focused on containing the conflict while responding to provocations with increased military precision.

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Source – thehindu.com