Pakistan continues small arms, artillery fire along LoC; ‘Responded proportionately,’ says Indian Army

Jammu and Kashmir, May 8, 2025:
Tensions surged again along the Line of Control (LoC) this week as Pakistani troops opened fire on Indian positions. The unprovoked attack involved both small arms and artillery fire targeting forward posts and nearby civilian areas. The Indian Army responded swiftly and firmly, stating that it returned fire in a proportionate and measured way.
The incident occurred in the Rajouri and Poonch sectors of Jammu and Kashmir. Panic spread quickly among local villagers as shelling echoed across the region. Several families fled to shelters or safer areas, fearing further escalation.
Indian Army’s Swift and Strategic Response
Indian soldiers took defensive positions and retaliated against the firing without delay. “We exercised our right to defend and responded with precision,” an army spokesperson confirmed. Troops remain on high alert to prevent any infiltration or further provocation.
Defense experts believe such actions by Pakistan may stem from internal political distractions or a tactic to redirect attention from economic turmoil. Some analysts suggest the activity could also serve as cover for cross-border infiltration attempts.
Fragile Ceasefire in Jeopardy
This latest flare-up raises concerns over the ceasefire agreement signed in February 2021. Both nations had pledged to uphold peace along the LoC after years of regular violations. While the ceasefire brought relative calm, recent months have seen repeated disturbances.
So far in 2025, at least six similar incidents have been reported. Indian officials stress that their forces do not initiate conflict but will defend their territory when required. “India seeks peace but cannot compromise its sovereignty,” the spokesperson reiterated.
Civilian Impact and Emergency Response
Residents of villages near the LoC faced a familiar and terrifying ordeal. The sudden shelling forced many to abandon their homes. Underground bunkers and relief shelters quickly filled with worried families.
“We were having dinner when the first blast hit,” shared Rafiqa Begum, a resident of a border village. “We grabbed our kids and ran for cover. It felt like we were back in 2016.”
District officials in Rajouri and Poonch moved fast to assess the damage. Emergency teams set up relief centers and offered food, shelter, and medical help. So far, there are no confirmed injuries, but the emotional toll on civilians is severe.
Strategic and Global Implications
The renewed violence draws international concern. As both India and Pakistan possess nuclear capabilities, even minor border skirmishes can raise global alarm. India’s challenge lies in balancing defense with restraint, especially under global scrutiny.
Retired military experts say Pakistan’s actions often follow a pattern. “These provocations may look small, but they often carry deeper political motives,” explained Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Rajesh Mehta. He urged India to remain firm without allowing itself to be drawn into a prolonged conflict.
International bodies, including the United Nations, have called for calm. Many countries urge both sides to return to diplomatic dialogue and uphold existing agreements.
Maintaining Vigilance Without Escalation
By choosing a proportionate response, India aims to maintain peace while sending a clear message. Over the years, Indian military strategy along the LoC has evolved. The approach now combines readiness with caution and minimizes the risk of civilian harm.
“Let there be no misunderstanding. Our soldiers are fully prepared to respond to any threat,” said Lt. Gen. Upendra Dwivedi of the Northern Command during a media briefing. He emphasized the importance of staying alert and calm.
India continues to prioritize national security and regional stability. Officials maintain close communication with local administrations and international partners to keep the situation under control.
A Call for Long-Term Peace
For the civilians living near the LoC, peace is more than a political ideal—it’s a daily necessity. Each shell that lands near a home adds another layer of fear and trauma. People want lasting peace, not just temporary ceasefires.
India remains open to peace talks but insists that dialogue must be based on mutual respect and an end to cross-border terrorism. Stability in the region depends on both sides upholding commitments and respecting each other’s sovereignty.
While the Indian Army stands ready to protect the nation, it continues to act with discipline and restraint. The goal is not escalation but resolution—firmly defending the border while avoiding unnecessary conflict.