Just hours after a ceasefire agreement was reached between India and Pakistan, a series of violations allegedly perpetrated by Pakistan plunged several cities into darkness on May 10, 2025. The alleged truce breach involved artillery shelling and drone incursions across the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB), leading to immediate blackouts and heightened security measures in the affected regions.
The ceasefire, which was brokered after mediation efforts led by the United States, was intended to halt the most serious military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed rivals in decades. U.S. President Trump had announced the agreement, stating that it followed a "long night of talks". However, the situation quickly deteriorated, with India accusing Pakistan of violating the understanding.
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that there had been "repeated violations of the understanding arrived between the two countries" regarding the ceasefire. He further accused Pakistan of breaching the agreement and called upon them to take corrective measures. Misri also affirmed that the Indian army was retaliating against what he termed a "border intrusion".
In the immediate aftermath of the alleged violations, multiple explosions were reported in Srinagar and Jammu, followed by widespread blackouts. Omar Abdullah, a prominent political figure in the region, expressed his dismay and disbelief on social media, questioning the status of the ceasefire amidst the reported explosions.
The cities and regions affected by the blackouts included:
In response to the ceasefire violations and drone sightings, blackouts were enforced, and air raid sirens were activated in several districts. Authorities urged residents to stay indoors and remain vigilant. India's air defense system reportedly intercepted and blocked several drones.
While India has presented evidence of ceasefire breaches, Pakistan's Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, told Geo News that no violations had occurred. This claim contradicts reports from residents and officials in India-administered Kashmir, who described hearing explosions and witnessing aerial activity.
The renewed hostilities have heightened concerns about the stability along the Line of Control. The ceasefire, which many hoped would mark a turning point in the relationship between the two countries, now appears fragile. The situation remains tense, with both sides accusing each other of violating the agreed-upon terms.
