JAMMU, India — Explosions rocked the city of Jammu amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, leaving residents in shock as sirens echoed across the region and a widespread blackout ensued. Reports indicate a series of blasts, following a sharp increase in cross-border artillery fire along the Line of Control, which divides the disputed territory of Kashmir.
The situation has rapidly deteriorated, leading to multiple fatalities since the conflict intensified earlier this week. At least 48 individuals, including 32 in Pakistan, have lost their lives since India’s military strikes on what it described as terrorist camps. Pakistan has denied any involvement in the recent hostilities, with Information Minister Attaullah Tarar asserting that there have been no Pakistani attacks on Indian territory.
Local journalist Zafar Choudhary characterized the explosions in Jammu as unexpected and unprecedented, noting that the immediate fear has subsided with the restoration of electricity in phases across the city. However, the alarming sound of artillery remains fresh in the minds of residents, especially those near the frontline.
Umar Meraj, another journalist reporting from Srinagar, highlighted a marked escalation in military engagement, stating that recent clashes have surpassed previous years in intensity, transitioning from sporadic gunfire to sustained artillery exchanges. The ongoing shelling has raised concerns about the safety of civilians along the border and prompted former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti to express her distress over the conflict’s impact on local populations.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry dismissed Indian claims of its military aggression, labeling them unfounded accusations aimed at inciting hostilities. The ministry alleged that these assertions reflect a broader strategy to fabricate justifications for military action against Pakistan.
In a further demonstration of escalating military actions, reports surfaced claiming that a Chinese-made J-10 fighter jet operated by Pakistan had engaged multiple Indian military aircraft in recent days. However, Indian officials have remained silent on reports of any aircraft losses, leaving much to speculation regarding the implications for aerial capabilities in the ongoing conflict.
On the ground, the situation has prompted a dramatic exodus of civilians from areas near the Line of Control, with many seeking refuge in safer locations or makeshift shelters. The Indian Army confirmed civilian casualties amidst the exchange of fire, and earlier this week, Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced purported successful strikes on terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan.
The crisis appears to be reaching a pivotal juncture, with analysts suggesting that both nations face significant pressure to respond to provocation without escalating the conflict further. Diplomatic channels remain under strain, although signs of potential dialogue surfaced following statements from both Pakistani and Indian officials regarding communication between their national security advisors.
With military readiness evident on both sides, the specter of a broader conflict looms over the region. As both nations assert their strategic ambitions and defensiveness, the international community remains watchful, raising urgent calls for de-escalation in hopes of restoring stability in a historically volatile region.