Tragedy Strikes: 12 Killed, Including Children, in Pakistan’s Cross-Border Shelling
LoC Shelling Leaves 12 Dead, Dozens Injured in Jammu and Kashmir
At least 12 people, including four innocent children, were killed and 57 others injured in a barrage of shelling from Pakistani forces across the Line of Control (LoC) in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Poonch district suffered the most casualties, accounting for all the civilian fatalities in this devastating attack.
According to officials, 42 people were injured in Poonch alone, with many in critical condition. The shelling ripped through several villages and towns, causing extensive damage to homes and vehicles.
Poonch Feels the Brunt of the Attack
The shelling was reported across multiple areas along the LoC in Poonch, including Balakote, Mendhar, Mankote, Krishna Ghati, Gulpur, Kerni, and even the district headquarters. The Indian Army responded swiftly and decisively, inflicting significant casualties on the Pakistani side and destroying multiple enemy posts involved in the attack.
Other Areas Also Targeted
Beyond Poonch, the shelling also affected other areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Ten people were injured, including five children, in Rajouri district, while the Karnah sector of Kupwara saw several houses engulfed in flames due to the intense shelling.
Schools Closed as Security Measures Tightened
Given the volatile situation, all schools, colleges, and educational institutions in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch were ordered closed for the day. This decision underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need to prioritize the safety of civilians.
Escalating Tensions Across the LoC
This marked the 13th consecutive night of unprovoked cross-border firing in Jammu and Kashmir. Tensions have been escalating following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, highlighting the fragility of peace in the region.
