2021 ceasefire in jeopardy as LoC, IB flare up

Srinagar, May 1: The 2021 ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan is facing its most serious challenge yet, following a sudden surge in cross-border firing after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.

The brutal assault, which claimed the lives of 26 persons ñ 25 tourists and a local pony wallah, Syed Adil Hussain - has reignited tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) and beyond.

For the first time since the landmark ceasefire pact was signed, hostilities have spilled over from Kashmir into the Jammu region, affecting areas along the International Border (IB) as well.

This escalation has sparked fears of a broader military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.

According to a defence spokesperson, Pakistani forces have opened fire at Indian positions for the seventh consecutive night.

The attacks, involving small arms such as rifles and light machine guns, were described as unprovoked.

The firing was reported from multiple sectors, including Kupwara, Poonch, Sunderbani, Nowshera, Akhnoor, and Pargwal.

Despite the sustained attacks, no casualties have been reported on the Indian side so far.

The Indian Army has responded ìproportionately,î according to officials.

Seventeen confirmed ceasefire violations (CFVs) have been recorded since April 24.

While heavy weaponry such as mortars and artillery has not yet been used, the steady rise in small arms fire has raised concerns that the situation could escalate into more intense clashes.

Before the Pahalgam attack, violations of the 2021 ceasefire agreement had sharply declined ó with only one incident reported in 2022, none in 2023, and just two earlier in 2024.

The relative peace had brought much-needed respite to residents along the tense frontier.

In response to the fresh escalation, security measures have been tightened across border areas.

Vehicle checks have been intensified, patrols increased, and Army movements have become more frequent.

Residents in Kupwara and neighbouring regions reported sightings of military convoys moving late at night, and temporary restrictions have been placed on civilian movement in some villages.

In several border villages, people have begun clearing and readying their emergency bunkers ó fortified shelters made from cement and steel, equipped with proper ventilation - in preparation for any potential shelling or extended conflict.

People in north Kashmirs Uri and Karnah sectors, which have historically borne the brunt of cross-border violence, are closely monitoring the situation.

These regions have previously endured shelling that caused significant civilian casualties, injuries, and amputations.

Residents remain cautious but calm.

There is no fear or panic yet. If something happens, we will take steps to protect ourselves, said Javid Iqbal of Uri.

Waseem Baba from Karnah echoed the sentiment, saying, ìTension is in the air. We just hope the situation does not get worse.î