Published: 17:05 IST, 7 May 2025

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following Operation Sindoor, with heavy cross-border shelling from Pakistan hitting civilian areas in Poonch and Tangdhar in Jammu and Kashmir.

What Happened?

On Tuesday night, soon after India carried out targeted strikes under Operation Sindoor, Pakistan began shelling across the Line of Control (LoC). According to the Indian Army, the artillery fire from Pakistan has killed 15 civilians and injured 43 others so far.

The worst-hit areas include Poonch, Rajouri, and Kupwara districts, particularly sectors like Uri, Karnah, Mankote, Mendhar, and Thandi Kassi.

Eyewitness Accounts

Residents described the situation as terrifying. The shelling began around 2 AM, catching many families off guard. Dozens of homes were damaged, and people had to flee in the dark for safety.

“It felt like a war zone. Injured people were screaming for help, and families were running for cover,” said Mohd Zahid, a local resident.

Another local, Khurshid Ahmad, shared,

“We were not prepared for such a situation in the middle of the night. Many of us have moved to our relatives’ homes for safety.”

Response from India

The Indian Army is retaliating strongly. Officials said several Pakistani posts that opened fire have been destroyed, and there are casualties on the enemy side.

Why Operation Sindoor?

India launched Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 people, including tourists.

As part of the operation, the Indian Air Force (IAF) struck nine terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Pakistan’s Retaliation and Claims

Pakistan’s military has claimed that 26 people were killed on their side in India’s air strikes and that several Indian jets were shot down. They have warned that India’s actions “will not go unpunished.”