Two civilians killed, 11 injured as Pakistan violates ceasefire
Two civilians were killed and 11 injured, one of them critically, as Pakistani forces continued shelling along the border in Jammu and Samba districts. The victims have been identified as 50-year-old Bachno Devi of Sai Khurda and 25-year-old Sahil Kumar of Korotana. BSF officials said Pakistan Rangers opened fire in RS Pura, Arnia, Chadwal and Ramgarh sectors early this morning, targeting Indian villages.
Border villages evacuated, schools shut down
According to reports, about 1,000 villagers staying near the border have been evacuated. Many have shut themselves inside their houses. Schools within a 4km radius from the border have been closed. Loud explosions could be heard on audio and video clips circulating on social media. Apart from villages, Pakistani troops are also targeting Indian posts at Chambliyal, Narianpur, SM Pura, Fathwal and seven others.
51 civilians killed in militancy-related incidents in 2017
According to the J&K government, 213 terrorists were killed last year, but 51 civilians also died in militancy-related incidents. Yesterday, three civilians, including two women in Arnia and a man in Suchetgarh, and a BSF soldier died in exchange of gunfire. Pakistan says India too has a role to play: according to Islamabad, New Delhi has broken ceasefire more than 1,900 times.
