Thefirstfossil

Menu

Tag: India

Posted on

“Escalation in Kashmir: India and Pakistan Exchange Airstrikes Amid Heightened Tensions”

The Poonch attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which occurred on April 20, 2023, has elicited a range of responses from various national and international entities. Below is a detailed overview of the statements and reactions from different countries and organizations:

India

  • Government’s Justification: India termed the strikes as “Operation Sindoor,” aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure linked to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The government emphasized that the operation was a measured response to the April 22 attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 Hindu tourists.The Guardian+1Wikipedia+1

  • Civilian Casualties: The strikes resulted in at least 26 deaths, including children, and 46 injuries in Pakistan. India acknowledged the civilian toll but maintained that the targets were military in nature.

    Indian Government’s Response

    • Military Action: In retaliation, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting what it identified as terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The Indian Ministry of Defence stated that the operation aimed to dismantle terror networks responsible for cross-border attacks. (The Guardian)
    • Civil Defence Measures: On May 7, 2025, India conducted a nationwide civil defence exercise, “Operation Abhyaas,” across 244 districts. This drill included air-raid siren tests, blackout simulations, and evacuation procedures, marking the most extensive such exercise since the 1971 India-Pakistan war. (Wikipedia)
    • Political Statements: Home Minister Amit Shah declared that no terrorist involved in the attack would be spared, underscoring India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. (Wikipedia)

    Political and Public Reactions

    • Congress Party: The Congress party condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the victims. Senior leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, termed the attack as “cowardly” and pledged to strengthen counterterrorism efforts in the region. (India Today)
    • Sufi Community: The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council condemned the attack, labeling it a “conspiracy to defame India” ahead of the G20 meeting scheduled in Kashmir. The council expressed unwavering support for the armed forces and their efforts to maintain peace in the region. (The Siasat Daily)

    These developments indicate a significant escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan, with both nations taking military and diplomatic actions in response to the Poonch attack.

Pakistan

Pakistan has strongly condemned the recent Poonch attack in India, which resulted in the deaths of 26 Indian tourists. In response, Pakistan conducted missile and drone strikes targeting nine sites within Indian-administered Kashmir. These strikes, dubbed “Operation Sindoor,” reportedly killed 26 people, including children, and injured 46. Pakistan claims to have downed several Indian jets and authorized retaliatory “corresponding actions.” NPR+6The Guardian+6Latest news & breaking headlines+6

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held an emergency National Security Committee meeting and vowed a firm response, stating, “We will avenge each drop of blood.” The Pakistani government criticized the international community for inaction and warned of broader economic consequences from the conflict. The Guardian+1The Guardian+1The Guardian

The situation has led to heavy artillery shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), affecting civilians on both sides. At least 12 Indian and 5 Pakistani civilians have been confirmed dead in exchanges. International concern has mounted, with the UN, China, Russia, and Western countries urging restraint and dialogue. The Guardian

This outbreak of violence marks the most serious confrontation between the nuclear-armed neighbors since 2019.

🌐 International Reactions

United Nations

  • Secretary-General’s Appeal: UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for “maximum restraint” and emphasized that “the world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan.” Wikipedia

  • European Union: The EU expressed concern over the incident and urged both nations to exercise restraint and to engage in dialogue to address the underlying issues.

  • Human Rights Organizations: Various human rights organizations condemned the attack and called for accountability for those responsible.

Russia

  • President Putin’s Condemnation: President Vladimir Putin condemned the attack in Kashmir, stating that “this brutal crime has no justification whatsoever.” He reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to cooperate with India in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Indiatimes+2Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2

  • Travel Advisory: Russia issued a travel advisory warning its citizens against traveling to Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack, citing increased security risks in the region.

United States

  • Government Statement: The U.S. expressed concern over the attack and called for restraint from both India and Pakistan.
  • Diplomatic Engagement: The U.S. State Department urged both nations to engage in dialogue to prevent further escalation and to address the root causes of the conflict.
  • State Department’s Statement: The U.S. expressed concern over the escalation and urged both nations to exercise restraint. The State Department updated its travel advisory, issuing a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” warning for India’s Jammu and Kashmir, citing high risks of terrorism and civil unrest.

United Kingdom

  • Government Response: The UK government condemned the attack and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.(The Siasat Daily)
  • Call for Restraint: The UK urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and to work towards de-escalating tensions in the region.
  • Foreign Secretary’s Statement: Foreign Secretary David Lammy urged both India and Pakistan to show restraint and engage in direct dialogue to find a swift, diplomatic path forward, calling the tensions “a serious concern.”

China

  • Official Statement: China expressed concern over the attack and called for both India and Pakistan to maintain peace and stability along their borders.
  • Diplomatic Engagement: China offered to mediate between the two countries to facilitate dialogue and prevent further escalation.(Latest news & breaking headlines)
  • Foreign Ministry’s Remarks: China expressed “regret” over India’s military actions and called for both countries to uphold peace and stability in the region. The Chinese Foreign Ministry urged both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, to remain calm, exercise restraint, and refrain from taking actions that might further complicate the situation.

France

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Statement: France recognized India’s legitimacy to ensure its security against cross-border terrorism and urged Pakistan to put an end to the operations of terrorist groups established on its territory. France also called for both nations to avoid further intensification of border hostilities. Indiatimes

Iran

  • Mediation Offer: Iran proposed to mediate a solution aiming at de-escalation between Pakistan and India, emphasizing the importance of dialogue to resolve the crisis. Wikipedia

Israel

  • Ambassador’s Support: Israel’s Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, expressed support for India’s right to self-defense, stating that “terrorists should know there’s no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent.” Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1

Saudi Arabia

  • Kingdom’s Appeal: Saudi Arabia expressed concern over the heightened tensions and continued border fire between India and Pakistan. The Kingdom appealed to both nations to de-escalate, avoid further escalation, resolve their disagreements through diplomatic channels, uphold the principles of good neighborliness, and strive for stability and peace for the welfare of their people and region. Wikipedia

🧭 Regional Perspectives

  • Bangladesh and UAE: Both countries supported peace talks and urged for diplomatic engagement to resolve the tensions. Wikipedia

  • Algeria and Egypt: These African nations expressed deep concern over the escalation and urged both sides to maintain self-restraint and return to dialogue. Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1

The international community remains deeply concerned about the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. While some countries have expressed support for India’s right to self-defense, there is a widespread call for restraint, dialogue, and diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and potential conflict.

Palestine

  • Solidarity Message: The Palestinian Authority expressed solidarity with India, condemning the attack and offering condolences to the families of the victims.
  • Call for Peace: Palestine urged both India and Pakistan to engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve their differences and prevent future conflicts.

 

The Poonch attack has highlighted the ongoing tensions in the region and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. While various nations and organizations have condemned the attack and called for restraint, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges. Continued diplomatic efforts and dialogue are essential to address the underlying issues and to prevent further escalation.

Posted on

Pakistan Shelling Kills 15 Civilians, Injures 43 in J&K After Indian Military Strikes

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)

The ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan has led to significant civilian casualties and damage, particularly in Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir. On May 7, 2025, Pakistan initiated heavy artillery shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in retaliation for India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted alleged militant sites in Pakistan. This escalation resulted in the deaths of at least 15 Indian civilians and injuries to 43 others, with Poonch and Rajouri districts being heavily affected .(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.

If you need further information or updates on this situation, feel free to ask.

For more detailed coverage, you can refer to the following articles:

Posted on

Historic Shift: India to Count Castes in 2025 Census

 

The upcoming 2025 caste census in India is a significant development with far-reaching implications. Below is an in-depth analysis of its merits and demerits, along with the perspectives of both the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition parties.

✅ Merits of the 2025 Caste Census

  1. Enhanced Policy Formulation
    A comprehensive caste census will provide accurate data, enabling the government to design targeted welfare programs for marginalized communities. This data is crucial for effective implementation of affirmative action policies.
  2. Identification of Social Inequities
    The census will help identify disparities in education, employment, and healthcare access among different caste groups, facilitating informed interventions.
  3. Empowerment of Backward Communities
    By recognizing the socio-economic status of various castes, the census can empower backward communities, ensuring they receive their rightful share of resources and representation.
  4. Strengthening Democratic Processes
    Accurate caste data can aid in fairer political representation and resource allocation, reinforcing the democratic fabric of the nation.

❌ Demerits of the 2025 Caste Census

  1. Potential to Reinforce Caste Divisions
    Critics argue that emphasizing caste in official records may perpetuate caste identities, hindering efforts towards a more inclusive society.
  2. Complexity in Data Collection
    India’s vast diversity includes numerous castes and sub-castes, making the enumeration process complex and potentially contentious.
  3. Risk of Social Unrest
    The release of caste data could lead to social tensions and conflicts, especially in regions with historical caste-based disparities.
  4. Strain on Administrative Resources
    Conducting a detailed caste census requires significant administrative resources, which could divert attention from other pressing issues.

🗣️ Perspectives on the Caste Census

BJP’s Stance

  • Support with Reservations: The BJP has expressed conditional support for the caste census. Party leaders like JP Nadda have stated that while they are not against the census, they caution against its potential to divide society. (The Indian Express)
  • Emphasis on Unity: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously emphasized the importance of focusing on the poor and marginalized without dividing them along caste lines. (The Times of India)

Opposition’s Perspective

  • Advocacy for Social Justice: Opposition parties, including the Congress and the INDIA alliance, have been vocal in demanding a caste census. They argue that accurate data is essential for addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring equitable development. (The Hindu)
  • Political Strategy: Some analysts view the demand for a caste census as a strategic move to consolidate support among backward communities ahead of elections.(News18)

🧭 Conclusion

The 2025 caste census is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s socio-political landscape. While it holds the promise of fostering inclusivity and addressing historical injustices, it also presents challenges that need careful consideration. The perspectives of both the ruling party and the opposition highlight the complexities involved in such a significant undertaking.

For a visual overview of the caste census and its implications, you may find the following video informative:

Posted on

India to Include Caste Details in 2025 Census, First Time Since 1931

India is set to conduct its long-delayed national census in early 2025, with the data expected to be released by 2026. This marks the first comprehensive population count since 2011, as the 2021 census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (The Times of India, Reuters)

Caste Data in the 2025 Census

The inclusion of caste data in the upcoming census has been a subject of significant debate. While the government has not made a final decision, discussions are ongoing. Currently, the census collects data on Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), but not on Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Proposals have been made to include OBCs and to gather more detailed information within these categories. The government is considering these suggestions, but no official announcement has been made yet. (Reuters, Telegraph India)

Political and Legal Considerations

The decision on caste data collection is politically sensitive. Opposition parties have called for a comprehensive caste census to better understand the socio-economic status of various communities. However, there are concerns that including caste data could lead to disputes over political representation and resource allocation. For instance, the delimitation of Lok Sabha seats, based on population data, is due in 2026. Using 2025 census data for this purpose could require constitutional amendments, as per Article 82 of the Indian Constitution. (The Times of India)

Broader Implications

The 2025 census is not just a demographic exercise but also a tool for shaping India’s future policies and political landscape. The inclusion or exclusion of caste data will have far-reaching implications for affirmative action programs, political representation, and social justice initiatives. As the government prepares to launch the census, the final decisions on caste data collection will be closely watched by all stakeholders.(Reuters)

  1. Rahul Gandhi Discusses Caste Census with Prof. Sukhdeo ThoratCongress leader Rahul Gandhi emphasizes the importance of the caste census as a step towards addressing inequality and fulfilling Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision.
  2. Bihar’s Caste Census FindingsBihar’s caste census revealed that over two-thirds of the state’s population belongs to marginalized communities, highlighting the need for inclusive policies.
  3. Telangana’s Social Educational Employment Economic Caste SurveyTelangana conducted a comprehensive caste survey to gather data on education, employment, and socio-economic conditions, aiming to inform welfare policies. 
  4. Andhra Pradesh’s Comprehensive Caste CensusAndhra Pradesh undertook a caste census to map demographics and assess access to amenities, supporting targeted welfare schemes. 

These images provide visual insights into the ongoing discussions and implementations related to the caste census in India.

Posted on

🔥 Operation Sindoor: India Strikes Back in Kashmir—Terrorist Sites Hit in Precision Air Raids

First Visuals of Airstrike in Pakistan on 7 May,2025

Operation Sindoor: India’s Precision Strikes in Kashmir—A Strategic Response to Terrorism

🔥 What Is Operation Sindoor?

On May 6, 2025, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” a series of targeted missile strikes against nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The operation aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure linked to groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, which have been implicated in recent attacks on Indian soil.Wikipedia+1DIE WELT+1

🎯 Targets and Execution

The Indian Air Force deployed Rafale jets armed with SCALP and Hammer missiles to execute the operation. Key sites struck included Bahawalpur, Muridke, Sialkot, Bhimber, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad. These locations were identified as hubs for militant activities and training camps. The strikes were described as “focused, measured, and non-escalatory,” with no Pakistani military facilities targeted .WikipediaWikipedia+1www.ndtv.com+1

💔 Civilian Impact

Despite India’s claims of precision, Pakistan reported that the strikes resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including a child, and injuries to 46 others. Damaged sites included mosques and civilian infrastructure, leading to widespread condemnation from Pakistan .Wikipedia+1The Guardian+1AP News

🛡️ Retaliation and Escalation

In response, Pakistan claimed to have shot down five Indian fighter jets, a statement not confirmed by India. Three Indian aircraft were reported to have crashed on Indian territory, with pilots injured. Additionally, Pakistani artillery fire along the Line of Control resulted in the deaths of three Indian civilians .Wikipedia+3The Guardian+3Wikipedia+3Wikipedia+1The Guardian+1Wikipedia

🌍 Global Reactions

The international community expressed concern over the escalating tensions. The United Nations, along with countries like the United States, China, and Russia, called for restraint and dialogue to prevent further conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors .Wikipedia+2AP News+2The Guardian+2The Guardian+1Wikipedia+1

🌐 International Reactions to Operation Sindoor

United Nations

  • Secretary-General António Guterres urged both India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further escalation. He emphasized that the world cannot afford a military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed nations. Hindustan Times+2Wikipedia+2The Hindu+2

United States

  • President Donald Trump expressed concern over the strikes, calling them “a shame” and hoped that the situation would “end very quickly.” Wikipedia+1The Economic Times+1

China

  • Foreign Ministry Spokesperson stated that China found India’s military operation regrettable and called for both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, urging restraint to avoid further complicating the situation. Wikipedia

  • Government officials brief the media following Operation Sindoor strike on Pakistan, on May 7, 2025

Russia

  • Russian Officials joined South Korea in speaking out against terrorism and called on Pakistan to do more to combat the menace on its soil. Despite conducting military exercises with Islamabad, Russia’s stance reflected growing global impatience with Pakistan’s approach to fighting terrorism. Hindustan Times

Israel

  • Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar expressed support for India’s right to self-defense, stating that terrorists should know there’s no place to hide from their heinous crimes against the innocent. Wikipedia

United Arab Emirates

  • Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan called for both India and Pakistan to show restraint and avoid escalation, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolution. Wikipedia+1The Hindu+1

Pakistan

European Union

  • European Union Officials expressed serious concern over the escalating tensions and urged both India and Pakistan to engage in dialogue to prevent further conflict.

✈️ Impact on International Travel

  • In the wake of the strikes, several international airlines, including Air France, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and Kuwait Airways, diverted flights to avoid Pakistani airspace. Additionally, flights from Indian carriers such as Air India, SpiceJet, and IndiGo were canceled or rerouted, leading to significant disruptions in regional air travel. Wikipedia+1Latest news & breaking headlines+1

The global community is closely monitoring the situation, with diplomatic efforts underway to de-escalate tensions and encourage dialogue between India and Pakistan.

🧭 Strategic Analysis

Operation Sindoor marks a significant development in the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict over Kashmir. While India asserts its right to self-defense against terrorism, the operation has raised questions about the balance between military action and the protection of civilian lives. The situation remains fluid, with both nations on high alert and the potential for further escalation.

 

Exit mobile version