Tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan, with recent reports of drone sightings and gunfire along the northern Indian border near Pakistan. These incidents follow a series of escalating events, including accusations of cross-border attacks and retaliatory measures from both sides.
Recent reports indicate that numerous drones were intercepted in the Samba sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Small arms firing was also reported on the International Border in the Samba and Hiranagar areas. In response to the heightened activity, a blackout was ordered in Jammu, Samba, and areas surrounding the Vaishno Devi Bhawan and Yatra Track. India's air defense system was activated to counter the drone incursions. Army sources indicate that drone activity in Samba has decreased in recent hours, and the situation is currently under control.
Similar incidents have been reported in Punjab, with explosions heard near Suranasi village in the Jalandhar district. Armed forces are actively working to neutralize drones in the area. Earlier, explosions were also reported in Punjab's Hoshiarpur. These events occurred shortly after Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation regarding the India-Pakistan conflict and Operation Sindoor.
The recent incidents are part of a broader pattern of escalating tensions between the two countries. India has accused Pakistan of targeting its western borders with drones, long-range weapons, and fighter jets. These attacks have allegedly targeted military sites and civilian infrastructure. India claims to have responded with precision strikes on identified military targets, dismissing Pakistan's claims of misinformation. Pakistan, on the other hand, claims to have shot down numerous Indian drones that violated its airspace. They also accused India of firing attack drones into Pakistani territory, resulting in civilian casualties.
Both sides have accused each other of initiating attacks and violating ceasefire agreements. India launched Operation Sindoor, conducting precision strikes on alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistan. This operation was in response to a terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. Pakistan has denied involvement in the attack and condemned India's actions.
In light of the escalating situation, authorities have taken precautionary measures, including enforcing blackouts and power cuts in several parts of Punjab. An air-raid siren was sounded in Amritsar, and an IndiGo flight from Amritsar to Delhi was forced to return mid-air due to the blackout.
Despite the ongoing tensions, there have been some attempts to de-escalate the situation. A Director General of Military Operations (DGMO)-level meeting was scheduled between India and Pakistan, during which both countries agreed to halt firing and military actions. This agreement followed a call from Pakistan's DGMO to his Indian counterpart.
