Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated sharply, with the Indian Defence Ministry accusing Pakistan of endangering civilians through drone attacks. The ministry stated that multiple armed drones were sent overnight, targeting civilian infrastructure and religious sites, including the Shambhu Temple and residential areas in Jammu. These actions have been condemned as a blatant attempt to violate India's sovereignty and endanger its citizens.
The Indian Army reported that drones from Pakistan were sighted at 26 locations along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB), including Baramulla, Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Lalgarh Jatta, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, Kuarbet, and Lakhi Nala. Indian forces have been actively tracking and engaging these aerial threats, using counter-drone systems to neutralize them.
In one instance, an armed drone reportedly targeted a civilian area in Ferozepur, injuring members of a local family. The injured were admitted to a government hospital and are reported to be safe. This attack highlights the direct threat these drones pose to civilian lives and infrastructure.
The Indian Army has retaliated strongly, destroying Pakistani posts and terrorist launch pads from where tube-launched drones were being operated. A terrorist launch pad in Looni, District Sialkot, opposite the Akhnoor area in Pakistan, was completely destroyed by the Border Security Force (BSF). These actions were taken in response to Pakistan's "misadventures of attempted drone strikes". The army claims the launchpads that were struck were hubs for planning and executing terror attacks against Indian civilians and security forces.
India's Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri, has refuted Pakistan's claims of destroying Indian critical infrastructure, calling them "completely false". He accused Pakistan of targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh added that the Pakistan army has been observed moving its troops forward, "indicating offensive intent to further escalate the situation".
Adding another layer to the conflict, the Indian government has accused Pakistan of using civilian airliners as shields during the attacks, keeping its airspace open despite launching drone and missile strikes. This, according to India, demonstrates a disregard for civilian lives, as these flights could have been caught in the crossfire.
The situation remains tense, with both sides accusing each other of escalating the conflict. The Indian Armed Forces are maintaining a high state of alert and have advised citizens living near the border to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary movement, and follow safety advisories issued by local authorities. While officials have stated there is no cause for panic, they have stressed the importance of vigilance.
