KKN Gurugram Desk | Tensions between India and Pakistan have dramatically escalated following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. In a disturbing development, Pakistani forces have continued ceasefire violations for the twelfth consecutive night, targeting multiple sectors along the Line of Control (LoC) and pushing Indo-Pak relations to the brink once again.

According to Indian Army sources, unprovoked shelling and small-arms fire were reported during the night of May 5–6 in areas spanning Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar, Nowshera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor. The Indian military responded strongly and proportionately to these attacks.

 Background: Pahalgam Attack Rekindles Bilateral Hostility

The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 has become a flashpoint in renewed hostilities between the nuclear-armed neighbors. At least 26 Indian citizens lost their lives when militants believed to be linked to Pakistan-based terror outfits targeted a civilian bus near a pilgrimage site in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

While the attack was widely condemned both domestically and internationally, it has triggered a cascade of diplomatic, military, and economic actions from New Delhi aimed at isolating Pakistan and eliminating cross-border terrorism.

 Ceasefire Violations Across Seven Districts

The ceasefire agreement signed between India and Pakistan in February 2021 has come under serious strain. Between May 5 and 6, Pakistani troops fired mortar shells and automatic weapons along the LoC, specifically targeting Indian forward posts and border villages.

Key Impacted Districts:

• Kupwara

• Baramulla

• Poonch

• Rajouri

• Jammu (Akhnoor Sector)

So far, Samba and Kathua, both located along the International Border (IB), have not reported shelling, though tensions remain high.

This wave of cross-border fire has spread from northern Kashmir (Kupwara, Baramulla) to the southern districts (Rajouri, Poonch, and Jammu), with the Parghwal sector near the IB now experiencing shelling after years of relative calm.

The Ceasefire Agreement: History and Current Status

India and Pakistan had agreed to re-implement the 2003 ceasefire agreement on February 25, 2021, through a joint declaration by their Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs). The renewed commitment came after heightened tensions following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which led to a sharp diplomatic fallout.

The 740-kilometer-long LoC, however, continues to witness frequent violations. These breaches not only endanger civilians but also weaken the fragile peace framework built through painstaking diplomatic engagement.

 Tactical Shift: Pakistani Aggression Expands Southward

Initially limited to Kupwara and Baramulla, the Pakistani shelling has now engulfed more districts. Military analysts suggest that Pakistan is deliberately escalating tensions in southern sectors to divert attention from growing global scrutiny over its support for terror groups.

The Indian Army’s counter-response included the use of automated mortars and anti-infiltration devices, pushing back attempted incursions and ensuring security for residents in vulnerable border villages.

Pakistan’s Pattern:

• Initial firing in northern LoC districts

• Gradual extension toward southern districts

• Sporadic activity along the International Border

 Official Statements from the Indian Army

In a briefing held Tuesday morning, a senior Indian Army spokesperson confirmed that the Pakistani side had violated the ceasefire without provocation, and that Indian forces responded robustly.

“We will not tolerate any aggression against Indian territory. Every ceasefire breach will receive an appropriate and proportionate military response,” the spokesperson said.

🇮🇳 India’s Diplomatic and Strategic Retaliation After Pahalgam Attack

In the wake of the Pahalgam attack, India has initiated a multi-pronged retaliation strategy against Pakistan, covering diplomatic, economic, and military domains.

Key Measures Taken by India:

1. Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (1960) – The treaty, crucial to Pakistan’s agricultural economy, has been unilaterally paused, impacting water flow to Pakistan.

2. Visa Cancellations – India revoked all Pakistani civilian visas and ordered those within Indian borders to leave within 48 hours.

3. Trade Suspension – All trade through the Attari-Wagah border was halted indefinitely.

4. Reduction of Diplomatic Staff – The Pakistani High Commission in Delhi has been asked to cut staff strength from 55 to 30.

5. Expulsion of Military Advisors – Defense, naval, and air force attaches posted in India were declared persona non grata and expelled.

6. Airspace Ban – Pakistan-registered aircraft are now banned from Indian airspace.

7. Digital Crackdown – Several Pakistani social media handles and YouTube channels accused of spreading anti-India propaganda were banned.

8. Military Empowerment – PM Narendra Modi has authorized full operational freedom to Indian forces to act against terrorism.

Ongoing Intelligence Operations

India’s intelligence agencies are gathering evidence against “The Resistance Front” (TRF), a Pakistan-backed terror organization believed to be responsible for the Pahalgam attack.

Early findings indicate foreign training, Pakistani handlers, and supply chains crossing the LoC, solidifying India’s international case against Islamabad.

 Repeated Ceasefire Violations Undermine Peace Efforts

This latest episode of firing has dealt a serious blow to ongoing backchannel diplomatic efforts. The Pahalgam attack, followed by sustained ceasefire violations, signals that Pakistan’s military establishment is unwilling to support peace talks, at least in the current geopolitical climate.

Repeated provocations have disrupted civilian life, forced evacuations from LoC villages, and damaged agricultural activity, especially during the sowing season.

 Geopolitical Implications and Global Reactions

The international community, including the United Nations and the United States, has expressed concern over the rising hostilities. Calls for dialogue and restraint have grown louder, but India has maintained that no talks are possible under continued cross-border terrorism.

The suspension of water treaties and airspace access could have long-term geopolitical ramifications, especially as Pakistan’s economy continues to struggle.

The India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement of 2021, seen as a turning point in border stabilization, is now at grave risk of collapse. The recent events — including the Pahalgam terror strike, unprovoked Pakistani firing, and India’s hardline response — indicate that South Asia’s most volatile flashpoint is heating up again.