Target of Civilians through Cross LoC Firing by Pakistan

The Line of Control (LoC), dividing India and Pakistan in the region of contested Jammu and Kashmir, has historically been a zone of military tension.

- SYED AALIYA

But of late, the dynamics of conflict along the LoC have taken a sinister turn. The Pakistani side has increasingly started targeting civilian populations instead of limiting action to military targets. These attacks have caused the unfortunate loss of innocent lives, extensive damage to residences, and large-scale displacement of border residents. Women, children, and the elderly have been the hardest hit, suffering from constant fear due to incessant ceasefire violations. Irrespective of several agreements made to ensure peace, Pakistan's persistent violations clearly reflect a blatant disregard for international norms and human rights.

India, determined to preserve its sovereignty is the only state that has exercised such restraint in accurately defending its citizens. Its soldiers have prioritized civilian safety, often absorbing provocations without escalating tensions. However, the systematic killing of civilians is a grave humanitarian catastrophe and needs immediate attention from the international community. The crisis reached an acute level after the dastardly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which resulted in 26 deaths, both of tourists and the local population. The attack evoked national indignation and demanded a stern action against the perpetrators.