Tensions have flared between India and Pakistan following a ceasefire agreement, with reports of explosions and drone sightings prompting India to impose a high alert in several states. The situation remains fragile, with both sides accusing each other of violating the truce.
Ceasefire and Violations
Earlier on Saturday, an understanding was reached between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan to halt firing and military action. This announcement came shortly after US President Donald Trump stated that both countries had agreed to a "full and immediate ceasefire" following US-mediated talks.
However, mere hours after the ceasefire was to take effect at 5 PM Indian Standard Time, reports of drone sightings and explosions began emerging from Jammu and Kashmir. These incidents raised concerns about the validity of the truce and sparked skepticism. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that Pakistan had violated the ceasefire understanding and that the Indian Army was retaliating against the border intrusion.
Drone Sightings and Explosions
Multiple explosions were heard in the Jammu and Kashmir regions of Srinagar and Udhampur. Citizens in Srinagar reported blasts after dusk, with air defense forces engaging a drone flying over the Batwara neighborhood near a strategic Army facility. Officials confirmed that the drone was downed. Sightings of drones were also reported from other areas, including Anantnag district's Verinag and Bandipora.
In response to the drone activity and explosions, a blackout was enforced in Srinagar, Jammu city, Kathua, and Nagrota. Similar measures were also taken in Pathankot and Ferozepur in Punjab, and Jaisalmer and Barmer in Rajasthan. Residents in Katra and around the Vaishno Devi Bhawan area were advised to observe a voluntary blackout.
Heightened Alert and Security Measures
The explosions and drone sightings have prompted heightened alert in both civilian and military establishments. Red alerts continue in some states. Amritsar has been placed on red alert, with residents urged to remain indoors. The Amritsar district administration stated that the city continues to be on "red alert" and that residents should not leave their homes.
Operation Sindoor
The recent escalation follows India's "Operation Sindoor," which targeted nine terrorist camps using precision airstrikes and coordinated ground operations in retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Pakistan responded with heavy shelling across the Line of Control (LoC) between May 8 and 10, including attacks on forward posts and drone-based missile attacks. The Indian Armed Forces have responded to and neutralized these attacks.
Reactions and Statements
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed skepticism about the ceasefire declaration on social media. Sharad Pawar, chief of NCP (SP) and former defense minister, stated that while India has always stood for peace and dialogue, taking firm action against terrorism is also a collective duty of the international community. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to the United States for its role in facilitating the truce and conveyed hope for future peace in the region.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, tensions remain high, and the situation is being closely monitored. The incidents of drone sightings and explosions have raised concerns about Pakistan's commitment to the truce and the potential for further escalation.
