Indian army retaliates after Pakistani troops fire at post along LoC in Poonch

Jammu and Kashmir: At approximately 11 AM on Sunday, Pakistani troops opened fire on an Indian Army post along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch sector of Jammu The Indian Army swiftly retaliated, ensuring no casualties or damage on the Indian side. Army officials confirmed the incident, stating that small arms fire was initiated from across the border and was responded to appropriately by Indian forces.

This latest exchange of fire comes amid ongoing efforts to maintain the ceasefire agreement along the LoC, which was reaffirmed by both India and Pakistan in February 2021. Despite occasional stray firing incidents, the ceasefire understanding between the two nations has largely remained intact. However, security forces remain on high alert, given the history of cross-border tensions in the region.

Security forces on high alert in Poonch

In a separate operation, Indian security forces, including the Romeo Force and the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, have launched an extensive search operation in the dense forest areas of Mendhar town, Poonch. The operation was initiated after intelligence inputs suggested the movement of suspicious individuals, possibly terrorists, in the region.

The security forces have intensified surveillance and are conducting combing operations to prevent any potential infiltration attempts or terror-related activities. Poonch, being a strategically sensitive region along the LoC, has witnessed frequent ceasefire violations and terrorist infiltration attempts in the past.

Ceasefire agreement and recent developments

The latest firing incident follows the Indian Army’s recent statement on February 13, reaffirming that the ceasefire agreement along the LoC remains in effect. The Army dismissed reports of major ceasefire violations, stating that while minor incidents of cross-border firing do occur, they are managed through established military communication channels.

"The ceasefire on the Line of Control is intact and continues to be observed as per the understanding between both the armies (of India and Pakistan). Tension due to some stray incidents of cross-LoC firing and a suspected IED blast on one of our PTLs on the LoC is being dealt with through the established mechanism. No exchange of fire of heavy-calibre weapons has taken place," the Army had stated few days ago.

While Indian forces remain committed to maintaining peace along the LoC, they continue to remain vigilant against any threats. The situation is being closely monitored, and concerns related to cross-border firing have been raised with the Pakistan Army through the appropriate military communication channels.

Meanwhile, additional security measures are being enforced in the Poonch region, with enhanced patrolling and deployment of forces to deter any untoward incidents. The Indian Army has reiterated its commitment to securing the border and ensuring the safety of civilians living in the border areas.