The situation in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, has escalated significantly following a series of cross-border shelling incidents attributed to Pakistan. These attacks have resulted in substantial civilian casualties and widespread fear among residents.(The Guardian)
Timeline of Events
- May 6, 2025: India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a series of missile and drone strikes targeting nine sites within Pakistan, citing retaliation for a deadly militant attack in Kashmir that killed 26 Indian tourists. Pakistan condemned the strikes as an act of war and authorized retaliatory actions. (The Guardian)
- May 7, 2025: In response, Pakistan initiated heavy artillery shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), affecting civilians on both sides. At least 12 Indian and 5 Pakistani civilians were confirmed dead in exchanges. The shelling targeted various towns, including Poonch, Uri, Pulwama, Kotli, Neelum Valley, Kupwara, and Rajouri. (The Guardian, The Guardian)
Impact on Poonch
In Poonch, the shelling resulted in the destruction of schools, a gurudwara, and several houses. At least 15 people were killed, including four children, and 54 others were injured. The attacks have displaced many residents, with over a million people affected across the region. (Wikipedia, Latest news & breaking headlines)
Military Engagements
Both nations have engaged in heavy artillery fire, with Pakistani tanks mobilizing near the border and air combat reported, including the downing of Indian fighter jets. Civilians on both sides are living in fear, with many taking refuge in bunkers. (Latest news & breaking headlines)
International Response
International concern has mounted, with the UN, China, Russia, and Western countries urging restraint and dialogue. Efforts from global powers such as the US, UK, and Gulf nations are underway to encourage both countries to de-escalate. (The Guardian, Time)
Current Status
The situation remains tense, with ongoing military engagements and civilian casualties. Both India and Pakistan have fortified their positions along the LoC, and diplomatic efforts are ongoing to prevent further escalation.(India Today, Wikipedia)
Impact on Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara
In Poonch, the shelling caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. A shell struck a corner of the Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara, a prominent Sikh place of worship in the region. Narinder Singh, President of the District Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee, confirmed the damage to the gurudwara .
Civilian Casualties and Displacement
The shelling has not only resulted in fatalities but has also displaced numerous residents. Many civilians have sought refuge in bunkers and safer areas, as the region faces ongoing threats of further attacks. The international community has expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region .(Latest news & breaking headlines)
Military Engagements and International Response
Both India and Pakistan have engaged in heavy artillery fire, with reports of air combat and downed fighter jets. The United Nations, along with countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and China, have called for immediate de-escalation and peaceful dialogue to prevent further loss of life and potential regional instability .(Latest news & breaking headlines)
‘War devours the innocent’: Akal Takht Jathedar condemns attack in Poonch, urges peace between India and Pakistan
The Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargajj, has strongly condemned the recent attack in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of at least 15 civilians and extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. Expressing deep grief over the incident, he extended heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed and offered prayers for the eternal peace of the departed souls. He also prayed for strength for the bereaved families to accept the will of the Almighty.Punjab News Express+1X (formerly Twitter)+1
Giani Gargajj emphasized that such inhumane acts should never occur anywhere in the world and called for peace and harmony to prevail across the nation and the globe. He further reminded the public of the March 2000 massacre in Chittisinghpura, Kashmir, where 35 Sikhs were killed, and the truth behind that incident has yet to come to light. He urged for justice in the Poonch incident and for the truth behind the Chittisinghpura massacre to be revealed so that the affected families can finally receive justice.Punjab News Express
The attack in Poonch has drawn widespread condemnation from various quarters, including political leaders, human rights organizations, and religious bodies, highlighting the need for accountability and justice. The international community has also expressed concern over the escalating violence and its impact on civilians.
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