Credit: PTI Photo
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said India used its ‘right to respond’ to the attack on its soil but showed “sensitivity by not allowing any civilian population to be affected at all.”
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Pakistani troops resorted to cross-border shelling along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir for the second consecutive day on Thursday, a day after the Indian armed forces targeted terror infrastructure in the neighbouring country as part of 'Operation Sindoor'.
The Pakistani side targeted civilian areas in the Karnah area, firing shells and mortars after midnight, officials said.
During the night of May 7-8, Pakistan Army posts resorted to unprovoked fire using small arms and artillery guns across the LoC in areas opposite Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri and Akhnoor areas in J&K. Indian Army responded proportionately: Indian Army
Defence Minister informed leaders that this was ongoing operation, hence can't give technical briefing: Rijiju after all-party meet
According to press release by the Indian Govt, " On the night of 07-08 May 2025, Pakistan attempted to engage a number of military targets in Northern and Western India including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj, using drones and missiles. These were neutralised by the Integrated Counter UAS Grid and Air Defence systems. The debris of these attacks is now being recovered from a number of locations that prove the Pakistani attacks."
On behalf of the European Union, the High Representative Kaja Kallas, said in a statement, "The European Union (EU) and its 27 Member States unequivocally condemn the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April and the murder of innocent civilians. Terrorism can never be justified. Those responsible for the attack must be brought to justice. Every state has the duty and the right lawfully to protect its citizens from acts of terror.
The EU is monitoring closely and with great concern the growing tensions in the region and the ensuing consequences, including the possible loss of more lives. The EU calls on both parties to exercise restraint, to de-escalate tensions and desist from further attacks to safeguard civilian lives on both sides. The EU urges both sides to engage in dialogue. It is vital that India and Pakistan also live up to their obligations under international law and take all measures possible to protect civilian lives.
The EU will work with all parties to de-escalate the situation."
On all-party meeting, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut told ANI, "The Defence Minister said that more than 100 terrorists were killed in Operation Sindoor. He also said that the operation is ongoing. In the all-party meeting we said that the terrorists who killed our people at Pahalgam should be held and brought to India, and the women survivors should identify them here."
Congress leader Hussain Dalwai told PTI, “It was necessary to retaliate against Pakistan over the innocent killings in Pahalgam. The Indian government has done a strategic and targeted attack. None of the civilians were killed. Only the nine terrorist bases are targeted. So, instead of retaliation, Pakistan should think of a solution through dialogue, as they can’t fight India."
The national carrier Srilankan Airlines on Thursday said its flights to Lahore have been temporarily suspended.
However, the services to Karachi would be continued as scheduled, the airline said.
The airline runs four weekly flights to Lahore and all those flights are cancelled till further notice. “This is being done in view of the current tensed military situation in the Kashmir region,” sources said.
In a late-night development on Wednesday, Pakistan government closed its airspace for all commercial flights at Lahore and Islamabad airports. The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), in a statement, however, said the Karachi airport would remain operational.
The closure of airspace and airports in Pakistan came after India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday hitting nine terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Punjab province of Pakistan in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack that killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
Pakistan army said 31 people were killed and 57 others injured in the Indian missile strikes launched shortly after midnight.
Due to reports of drone explosions, downed drones, and possible airspace incursions in and near Lahore, the US Consulate General in Lahore has directed all consulate personnel to shelter-in-place. The Consulate has also received initial reports that authorities may be evacuating some areas adjacent to Lahore’s main airport.
US citizens who find themselves in an area of active conflict should leave if they can do so safely. If it is not safe to leave, they should shelter-in-place: US Embassy & Consulates in Pakistan
Trading was halted for an hour on Thursday at the Pakistan Stock Exchange after the benchmark index plunged 6.3%, a notification from the exchange showed, following reports of drones being shot down in major cities including Karachi and Lahore.
Pakistan's international bonds also came under pressure with the 2036 maturity suffering the biggest losses, down more than 1 cent to be bid at 73.8 cents in the dollar, Tradeweb data showed.
Metal debris was found scattered at some places in a village in Amritsar district on Thursday, with some locals claiming them to be parts of a missile.
Police said the objects can be identified only after an investigation.
The villagers said they found the metal parts in some open fields and houses at Jethuwal village in the district.
No damage was caused to any property, they said.
Upon finding the debris, the locals contacted the police, who further informed the Army.
The Amritsar district administration carried out a blackout drill in the early hours of Thursday, urging residents to remain indoors and not panic.
The drill that began around 1.30 am was the second in the district in three hours. The first one was conducted from 10:30 pm to 11 pm on Wednesday.
Several districts across the country conducted mock drills on Wednesday after the Indian military targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under 'Operation Sindoor' launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack.
The armed forces struck nine terror targets in Pakistan and PoK, including the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold of Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke.
-PTI
With Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Sh Ramesh Kumar and DMs/DCs of Kathua, Samba, #Jammu, Poonch and Rajouri, held a detailed review of the administrative arrangements and public confidence building measures in the wake of the developments of the last two days. Must appreciate the prompt and effective steps taken by each of the concerned district teams. All the officers spoke one by one and were forthcoming in offering inputs and update with regard to Civil Defence, transport, Bunkers upkeep, evacuee camps, medical care reinforcement etc. Also, directives are in place to check fake news and rumours through social media and other handles. We need to feel absolutely reassured under the astute stewardship of PM Sh @narendramodi and, deal with the situation with a “whole of government” + “whole of nation” approach" posts Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh
"The precision with which Operation Sindoor was executed is unimaginable and truly commendable. Nine terrorist camps were destroyed, and a large number of terrorists were eliminated. No civilians were harmed during the operation, and collateral damage was minimal. Operation Sindoor was made possible due to the high-quality equipment used by our armed forces."
According to the officials, the Bahawalpur centre of JeM, spread over 15 acres, is run by de-facto chief Abdul Rauf Asgar and the area has residential houses of JeM founder Masood Azhar and other family members.
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In the interest of national security, all OTT platforms, media streaming platforms and intermediaries operating in India are advised to discontinue the web-series, films, songs, podcasts and other streaming media content, whether made available on a subscription based model or otherwise, having its origins in Pakistan with immediate effect: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
During the press briefing on operation Sindoor on 07 May 2025, India had called its response as focused, measured and non-escalatory. It was specifically mentioned that Pakistani military establishments had not been targeted. It was also reiterated that any attack on military targets in India will invite a suitable response. On the night of 07-08 May 2025, Pakistan attempted to engage a number of military targets in Northern and Western India including Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj, using drones and missiles. These were neutralised by the Integrated Counter UAS Grid and Air Defence systems. The debris of these attacks is now being recovered from a number of locations that prove the Pakistani attacks:
"Pakistan has increased the intensity of its unprovoked firing across the Line of Control using Mortars and heavy calibre Artillery in areas in Kupwara, Baramulla, Uri, Poonch, Mendhar and Rajouri sectors in Jammu and Kashmir. 16 innocent lives have been lost, including three women and five children, due to Pakistani firing. India was compelled to respond to bring Mortar and Artillery fire from Pakistan to a halt. Indian Armed Forces reiterate their commitment to non-escalation, provided it is respected by the Pakistani military.": Wing Commander Vyomika Singh
India's executive director at the International Monetary Fund will put forward the country's position at a board meeting on Friday, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said on Thursday in response to a query on New Delhi asking for a review of loans to Pakistan.
-Reuters
On Operation Sindoor, Congress MP Manish Tewari told ANI, "Pakistan is the only land where the nation does not have a military, but a military has a nation. And that military has created and spawned an infrastructure of semi-state actors and uses terror as an instrument of state policy. After the attack in Pahalgam where people were targeted in the name of the religion, steps by the government of India to bring the perpetrators, their masterminds and the deep state of Pakistan to justice are absolutely in alignment with our right to exercise the prerogative of our national defence. When it comes to the question of our national security, there is no government or opposition, but the entire nation is one and stands behind the actions initiated by the Indian armed forces in defence of our country..."
Pakistan's Punjab province government on Thursday announced the closure of all educational institutions across the province till Sunday, amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
"All educational institutions -- public and private -- will remain closed till May 11," a Punjab government notification said.
The Maryam Nawaz government has also declared an emergency in all hospitals of the province, allocating 50 per cent of the total beds to meet any emergency in the wake of tensions between India and Pakistan.
“In the light of the ongoing escalation between Pakistan and India, the competent authority is pleased to declare a health emergency in all public sector tertiary/teaching hospitals in Punjab and you are directed to remain on emergency high alert with immediate effect,” the Punjab government said in a directive to the health authorities.
The authorities have been directed to ensure availability of sufficient blood bags, along with an updated list of donors, adequate supplies of medicines, IV fluids, vaccines, surgical/disposables/medical devices and gases.
India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday hitting nine terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Punjab province in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack that killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
On Thursday, Pakistan Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said one drone crashed near Lahore and four soldiers sustained injuries as a result of the attack.
An official told PTI that at least four drones hit the Lahore cantonment area.
The armed forces opened fire and played a siren, causing panic among the residents of Lahore's border areas and Defence House Authority, the official added.
“PM Narendra Modi gave assurance to all the Indians that Indian Armed Forces will destroy the terrorist camps. Our Armed Forces under leadership of PM Narendra Modi have destroyed 9 terrorists’ bases and hideouts. India has given a message to the world that our only motive is to eradicate terrorism.”: Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia
-ANI
A complete blackout has been enforced in Kishtwar of Jammu Division, and sirens are being heard throughout the district.
-ANI
-ANI
Sounds resembling blasts caused panic in Jammu city late on Thursday evening as security forces detected Pakistani drones near the heavily-guarded airport here, officials said.
It was not immediately known whether the airport, which also houses an Indian Air Force station, is under attack.
Jammu plunged into darkness with electricity snapped soon after two powerful explosions were heard in the vicinity of the airport.
Officials said counter-measures have been initiated and a few Pakistani drones were downed by the Indian anti-drone system.
According to some eyewitness, one of the drones was seen dropping outsides the airport.
-PTI
-PTI
Amid reports of low-range missile and drone attacks originating from Pakistan, a sudden and complete power blackout plunged Jammu city and several surrounding regions into darkness late Thursday evening, triggering alarm across the Union Territory and beyond.
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-DHNS
-DHNS
He also speaks to the CISF DG regarding airport security.
Operation Sindoor reflects the resolve of a nation which refuses to bend in the face of terror, Mahindra Group said on Thursday.
"We at the Mahindra Group stand in admiration and deep respect for the bravery and precision demonstrated by the Indian Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor," the Mumbai-based business group said on X.
The mission reflects the unwavering resolve of a nation that refuses to bend in the face of terror, it added.
"Under the decisive leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has sent a clear and powerful message: our nation will not tolerate acts of terror on our soil or threats to our people," the diversified group said.
Operation Sindoor is a proud reaffirmation of India's strength, sovereignty, and spirit, it added.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday night spoke to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and conveyed to him that India will firmly counter any attempts by Pakistan to escalate the situation.
The external affairs minister also had a phone conversation with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas.
Following the phone conversation with Rubio, Jaishankar underlined India's targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism.
"Spoke with US @SecRubio this evening. Deeply appreciate US commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism," Jaishankar said in a social media post.
"Underlined India's targeted and measured response to cross-border terrorism. Will firmly counter any attempts at escalation," he said.
The phone conversation came as tensions between India and Pakistan soared significantly following India's Operation Sindoor on early Wednesday and Pakistan's subsequent unsuccessful attempt to attack 15 Indian cities.
US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said Rubio emphasised the need for immediate de-escalation.
"He expressed US support for direct dialogue between India and Pakistan and encouraged continued efforts to improve communications," Bruce said.
"The secretary reiterated his condolences for the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam and reaffirmed the United States' commitment to work with India in the fight against terrorism," she added.
On his phone talk with Kallas, Jaishankar said: "Discussed ongoing developments with EU HRVP @kajakallas."
He added, "India has been measured in its actions. However, any escalation will get a firm response."
A loud sound, likely of shelling, was heard in Jaisalmer on Thursday, police sources said.
A top officer confirmed that a sound was heard in Jaisalmer.
Forces are on high alert and border districts remain under a blackout.
The skies lit up as Pakistan fired missile/drones which were neutralised by Indian air defence system, a source said, adding there was no report of any damage.
Further details are awaited.
Amid escalating tensions along the Line of Control, the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) on Thursday appealed to its members across the country to mobilise for humanitarian aid and emergency support in the border regions.
In an official statement, the IYC said India is "standing at a critical juncture" as security threats mount along the borders.
"While our brave soldiers face the enemy with unmatched courage and protect our borders, our responsibility begins within the borders -- to serve people, to stand by those in need, and to rise as true volunteers of humanity," the statement read.
The Congress youth wing announced the launch of #SOSIYC Relief Camps in various border districts to aid civilians affected by the crisis.
It urged all state and district units to swiftly mobilise resources, compile databases of volunteers, and remain connected for effective coordination.
Civil aviation authorities are monitoring flight operations in different parts of the country after security forces detected Pakistani drones near the heavily-guarded Jammu airport on Thursday evening, according to sources.
Sounds resembling blasts caused panic in Jammu city late on Thursday evening as security forces detected Pakistani drones near the heavily-guarded airport here, officials said.
It was not immediately known whether the airport, which also houses an Indian Air Force station, is under attack.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Airports Authority of India (AAI) are monitoring the flight operations, the sources said.
One of the sources said that flight operations are currently normal at the Delhi airport.
Around 27 airports in various parts of the country are closed in the wake of the Operation Sindoor, under which armed forces carried out strikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir on Wednesday in retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack that had killed at least 26 people last month.
Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi on Thursday urged people not to pay heed to rumours about the need to hoard essential items, saying the country has more than enough stock of all essential goods.
In a post on X, Joshi said, "In certain parts of the country, rumours are spreading, causing people to rush to collect essential food items and other daily necessities".
The minister categorically said, "We have more than enough stock of everything required across the country".
"Our stock is many times larger than what is needed, and there is absolutely no reason for anyone to rush to the markets in any part of the country," the minister asserted.
Joshi said there is no shortage whatsoever and no one should give any value to such rumours.
Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, many states have announced the closure of schools, blackouts in border districts, and the cancellation of leave for police personnel and administration officials.
Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, a major infiltration bid by suspected terrorists was foiled by the BSF along the International Border (IB) in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir.
"At around 2300 hours on 8 May 2025, BSF foiled a major infiltration bid at the International Boundary in Samba district, J&K," the Border Security Force said in a post on X in the early hours of Friday.
It was not immediately clear whether any terrorist was hit by the firing. Things will become clear after a thorough search in the area in the morning, officials said.
The infiltration bid came on a day when India neutralised Pakistan military's attempt to hit military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur and some other locations with missiles and drones as tensions soared between the two countries amid fears of a wider military conflict.
A local in Rajasthan said, "When blackout happened at 9 in the night, we heard the explosions. Earlier, we thought it was firecrackers, but later we realised it was a real bomb, targeted at us. We never thought of experiencing this.
"We are happy that all the Pakistani drones were neutralised. There is no atmosphere of fear...Indian air defence system is completely efficient."
Pakistani drones were intercepted by Indian air defence in Jaisalmer last night.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah left for Jammu early Friday to take stock of the situation following last night's failed drone attack by Pakistan.
India on Thursday night neutralised Pakistan military's attempt to hit military stations in Jammu, Pathankot, Udhampur and some other locations with missiles and drones as tensions soared between the two countries amid fears of a wider military conflict.
(PTI)
All citizens are requested to stay indoors and away from the windows and keep lights turned off and the window curtains drawn. There is no need to panic, a siren will blow now and we will pass the message again once it is clear. Our armed forces are on the job, and we need to support them by staying indoors. There is no need to panic: Amritsar DPRO
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma says, "All remaining Bihu functions scheduled from 10th May onwards be kindly cancelled."
All schools across J&K are closed today and tomorrow as a measure of precaution due to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan
The government on Friday dismissed claims of a suicide attack on an Army brigade in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri and a drone attack in Punjab's Jalandhar by certain social media handles as "fake news".
The Press Information Bureau's (PIB) Fact Check Unit found that there was no "fidayeen" or suicide attack on any Army cantonment in Jammu and Kashmir, while the video claiming to be that of a drone attack in Jalandhar pertained to a farm fire.
It also found that an old video shared on social media claiming to be of Pakistan's missile attack on India was actually of an explosive attack that took place in Beirut, Lebanon, in 2020.
(PTI)
Sounds resembling blasts caused panic in Jammu city late on Thursday evening as security forces detected Pakistani drones near the heavily-guarded airport here, officials said.
(PTI)
Pakistan's government appealed on Friday to international partners, including the World Bank, for more loans, citing "heavy losses inflicted by enemy", following retaliatory strikes by India on Wednesday.
(Reuters)
A total blackout for more than 7 hours was enforced in several parts of the border districts of Kutch and Banaskantha in Gujarat on Thursday night amid escalating tension between India and Pakistan, officials have said.
Both Kutch and Banaskantha districts share a border with Pakistan.
Officials confirmed that several parts of Kutch, including Bhuj, Nalia, Nakhatrana and Gandhidham towns, were put under total blackout as a precautionary measure to deter any offensive gesture by Pakistan.
(PTI)
"An air warning has been received from Air Force station of possible attack. Sirens are being sounded. All are advised to remain indoors and away from balconies," says DC Chandigarh, reports ANI
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is likely to hold a high-level meeting with Armed Forces chiefs amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions.
On India-Pakistan tension, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian yesterday said, "We’ve shared China’s position yesterday on the ongoing situation between India and Pakistan. China is concerned over the current developments. India and Pakistan are and will always be each other’s neighbours. They’re both China’s neighbours as well.
"China opposes all forms of terrorism. We urge both sides to act in the larger interest of peace and stability, observe international law, including the UN Charter, remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from taking actions that may further complicate the situation.
"We stand ready to work with the rest of the international community to continue playing a constructive role in easing the current tensions."
A woman was killed and two of her family members injured after Pakistani troops resorted to heavy shelling in areas near the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Friday.
They said the Indian Army has responded proportionately to the Pakistani aggression.
(PTI)
Reuters took out an advisory saying , "Pakistan asks international partners for loans, citing 'heavy losses inflicted by energy'" is wrong and is withdrawn. Pakistan's Ministry of Economic Affairs said its X account, which carried the statement cited in the story, had been hacked.
In view of the current situation, Indian Railways plans to run three special trains from Jammu and Udhampur to Delhi, says Indian Railways.
Congress organises Tiranga Yatra from KR Circle to Minsk Square near Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium in Bengaluru in solidarity with the Indian armed forces amid India-Pakistan tensions.
Punjab government is preparing to deal with the situation. Today, the ministers will review the emergency services in the border districts. Will inspect hospitals, fire stations, Will inspect the availability of ration and emergency services, Cabinet ministers will reach the border districts, immediately after the cabinet meeting, 10 ministers will leave for the border areas.
"Ministers Lal Chand Kataruchakk and Dr. Ravjot Singh will go to Gurdaspur. Ministers Kuldeep Dhaliwal and Mohinder Bhagat will take charge of Amritsar: Punjab CMO
On Tiranga Yatra rally, Karnataka Dy CM DK Shivakumar says, "We have invited all sections of the society... We want to salute our armed forces and stand in solidarity with the country... I'm pleased that within a short period, all sections of people, including retired armed forces, students, and all political parties, are participating here... India is stronger. Like we managed the situation under the leadership of Indira Gandhi, the same thing will happen now, and India will win."
The Made in India Akash surface-to-air missile air defence system has been effectively used by the Indian armed forces in foiling Pakistani attacks towards Indian targets. Both the Indian Army and Air Force have the missile system all along the Pakistan border: Defence Officials
On 8-9 May 2025, BSF foiled a major infiltration bid at the International Boundary in Samba district, J&K by killing at least seven terrorists and causing extensive damage to the Pakistan Post Dhandhar, says BSF.
Indian Oil Corp Ltd took to X (formerly Twitter) to assure the public that there is no to panic, they have ample supplies for everyone. They wrote , "#IndianOil has ample fuel stocks across the country and our supply lines are operating smoothly.
"There is no need for panic buying—fuel and LPG is readily available at all our outlets.
"Help us serve you better by staying calm and avoiding unnecessary rush. This will keep our supply lines running seamlessly and ensure uninterrupted fuel access for all."
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewing situation at South Block with CDS Gen Anil Chauhan, Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh & Defence Secretary RK Singh
Union Home Minister Amit Shah to convene a meeting at 12:30 pm with the Director General of BSF, the Director General of CISF, and senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs to review the border situation and airport security arrangements.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh issues statement on OperationSindoor
"We congratulate the central government leadership and our armed forces for decisive action “Operation Sindoor” taken against Pak-sponsored terrorists and their supporting ecosystem following the cowardly attack on unarmed tourists at Pahalgam...We condemn the attacks being carried out by Pakistani army on religious places and civilian settlement areas on the border of Bharat and express heartfelt condolences to families of victims in these savage, inhuman attacks."
World Bank President, Ajay Banga said, "We have no role to play beyond a facilitator. There’s a lot of speculation in the media about how the World Bank will step in & fix the problem but it’s all bunk. The World Bank’s role is merely as a facilitator
Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah on India-Pakistan tension: “Pakistan's recent actions of targeting civilians in Jammu using drones were both shocking and unprecedented, reminiscent of the aggression seen after the 1971 war. However, our Indian defense forces swiftly and effectively neutralised the threat.
"Several areas in Jammu and Kashmir were targeted, but Pakistan's efforts were thwarted by our forces. It is important to understand that these situations are not of India’s choosing. The cycle of violence began with Pakistan's attack in Pahalgam, where innocent lives were targeted. Now, it is Pakistan’s responsibility to choose peace and ensure the safety of civilians on both sides of the border.”
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday visited the Uri sector to assess the damage caused by Pakistani shelling in civilian areas over the past three nights.
Sinha directed the administration to provide immediate relief to the affected families and ensure their safety. (PTI)
Source: X/ANI
The Northern Railway on Friday introduced three special trains from Jammu and Udhampur to New Delhi after noticing increasing demand for travel on this route.
"One special train with 12 unreserved and 12 reserved coaches left from Jammu to New Delhi around 10.45 am. The second one, a 20-coach Vande Bharat train, started at 12:45 pm from Udhampur to New Delhi via Jammu and Pathankot," Himanshu Upadhaya, Chief Public Relation Officer, Northern Railway, said.
“The third special, a 22-coach reserved train, has been scheduled from Jammu to New Delhi around 7 pm," he added. (PTI)
Warning Pakistan that continued escalation from across the border would only hurt them, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called Thursday's aerial strikes on Jammu one of the "most serious assaults" on the city since the 1971 war.
He said that Pakistan should focus on de-escalation amid the ongoing military conflict in the wake of Operation Sindoor. (PTI)
After Indian Armed Forces carried out Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory attack targeting 9 terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (Pok), a flurry of misinformation and propoganda from the neighbouring country has overtaken social media.
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Haunted by Thursday night’s blackout, drone, missile attacks and rising whispers of war, people across Jammu and Kashmir are gripped by dread, bracing for another terrifying night in darkness and the chilling silence that often comes before the storm.
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In the smouldering ruins of what used to be homes, hopes and everyday lives, the border villages of Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district are mourning their dead—and waiting, trembling, for the next shell to fall.
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Credit
PM Narendra Modi met a group of armed forces veterans today. PM had an extensive interaction with veterans on various issues on the current situation
This included former Air Force Chiefs, Army Chiefs, Navy Chiefs and other veterans who have extensively served the country. (ANI)
Three policemen were injured when a vehicle, part of the escort of a High Court judge, skidded off the road and turned turtle on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in Ramban district on Friday, officials said.
The accident took place in the Wagan-Nachilana area when a Gypsy escorting the judge's vehicle overturned due to slippery conditions, they said. The officials said that the injured cops were shifted to Banihal's Sub-Divisional Hospital for treatment.
All of them are reported to be stable, they added. (PTI)
Source: ANI
Source: ANI
"Intermittent sounds of blasts, probably heavy artillery, can now be heard from where I am," tweets Omar Abdullah on X.
Source: ANI
Source: X/@ANI
Source: ANI
Source: ANI
Source: ANI
Source: ANI
India deployed Barak-8 missiles, S-400 Triumph air defence systems, Akash surface-to-air missiles and indigenously developed anti-drone equipment in thwarting Pakistan's attempts to hit 15 Indian cities on Wednesday night, official sources said on Friday.
Pakistani military attempted to target Awantipura, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Amritsar, Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Adampur, Bhatinda, Chandigarh, Nal, Phalodi, Uttarlai, and Bhuj using missiles and drones. (PTI)
Source: ANI
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Friday said India is "confronting" the challenge of terrorism, which is a "shared threat" to the international community.
The minister thanked those who have expressed solidarity with the country and understand the "resolute response that is underway". (PTI)
Bhupinder Singh Sidhu says, "We received information about 3 people being injured. They have burn injuries. Doctors will treat them. Most of the drones have been neutralised by the army..." (ANI)
Source: ANI
Source: ANI
Thousands of people living near the Line of Control in three border districts of Kashmir have been evacuated following heavy shelling by Pakistani troops.
The people living along the Line of Control in Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora districts have been shifted to bunkers or other locations, officials said. The evacuation started after Pakistan resorted to unprovoked shelling on civilian areas along the LoC in response to the missile strikes carried out by Indian armed forces targeting the terror infrastructure in the neighbouring country. (PTI)
In separate cases, a woman college student living in Pune and a young man in Bhiwandi were arrested on Friday for allegedly posting messages in support of Pakistan on social media.
A Hindu rightwing group had claimed that Khatija Shaikh (19), student of an engineering college in Pune, had posted the slogan "Pakistan Zindabad" among other things on her Instagram account. Following a complaint, a case was registered against her at Kondhwa police station under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 152 (acts endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of India), 196 (promoting enmity between different groups), 299 (outraging religious feelings) and 352 (intentional insult intended to provoke a breach of peace). "She has been arrested and further probe is underway," said Rajkumar Shinde, deputy commissioner of police (zone 5).
In Bhiwandi in Thane district, an 18-year-old youth was arrested on the same charges for allegedly posting content in support of Pakistan on his Instagram profile, said senior inspector Krishnadeo Kharade. (PTI)
Source: PTI
Source: ANI
India on Friday night repelled fresh drone attacks from Pakistan at 26 locations in the country's north and west including Srinagar airport, as it accused Islamabad of using its civilian planes as a “shield” for its aerial strikes endangering their flights.
As Pakistan targeted several cities for the third consecutive night, this time from Baramulla in north Kashmir to Bhuj in Gujarat, the government said Islamabad had launched between 300 and 400 Turkish drones across 36 locations from Leh to Sir Creek in its failed attempt to target Indian military installations on Thursday night.
"Drones have been sighted at 26 locations ranging from Baramulla in the north to Bhuj in the south, along both the International Border and the Line of Control with Pakistan," military officials said. The drone strikes in locations that included airports and airbases have been successfully thwarted, they added.
No direct communication has occurred between India and Pakistan amid the ongoing tensions between the two neighbours, Pakistan's military spokesperson said on Friday.
Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry made the comment while addressing a press conference here.
Responding to a question, Chaudhry said, "I can confirm that no direct communication has taken place between the national security advisers of Pakistan and India."
When a journalist pointed out that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar had claimed such contact had occurred, Chaudhry denied it, saying that any indirect communication falls under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is better positioned to comment on diplomatic efforts.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reached the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) in Gandhinagar on Friday night and took stock of the security scenario against the backdrop of the ongoing military conflict between India and Pakistan. He also reviewed the coordination between the state administration and security agencies. "Visited the SEOC in Gandhinagar to review the ongoing coordination with district administration and security agencies in the current situation, as well as the actions being taken by the administration keeping in mind any possible emergencies," CM Patel said in his post on X.
In separate cases, a woman college student living in Pune and a young man in Bhiwandi were arrested on Friday for allegedly posting messages in support of Pakistan on social media. A Hindu rightwing group had claimed that Khatija Shaikh (19), student of an engineering college in Pune, had posted the slogan "Pakistan Zindabad" among other things on her Instagram account. Following a complaint, a case was registered against her at Kondhwa police station under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 152 (acts endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of India), 196 (promoting enmity between different groups), 299 (outraging religious feelings) and 352 (intentional insult intended to provoke a breach of peace).
The Madhya Pradesh government on Friday cancelled all kinds of forthcoming leaves of officials in 13 departments including the Home and Health and Medical Education in view of the India-Pakistan military conflict. "In view of the unprecedented situation, the state government has restricted all kinds of forthcoming leaves of the entire government staff working in 13 departments with immediate effect till further orders," said an order issued by the general administration department
"He lost his life when his vehicle met with an accident and plunged into a gorge. I offer heartfelt tributes to him and salute his valour. We stand with his family in their time of grief," Fadnavis said on X. Ajit Pawar too said in a message on X that the country will always remember the sacrifices of the soldier and his family.
A blackout was enforced in Kutch and parts of Banaskantha and Patan districts of Gujarat on Friday night in view of the military standoff between India and Pakistan, officials said. While the blackout measure was implemented in the entire Kutch district, power supply has been cut off in some bordering areas of Banaskantha and Patan districts, which are close to the Indo-Pak border, they said.
Drone attacks on several installations, including Srinagar airport and south Kashmir's Awantipora air base, were thwarted late on Friday, officials said.
The attacks came a day after India scuppered attempts by the Pakistan military to hit Indian military installations with drones and missiles, they said.
Drones have been sighted at 26 locations from Baramulla in the north to Bhuj in the south, along the International Border and the Line of Control, officials said.
Locations where these sightings were made, include Srinagar, Avantipora, Nagrota, Jammu, Ferozpur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Lalgarh Jatta, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bhuj, Kuarbet, and Lakhi Nala.
A drone was noticed flying over the Srinagar airport at around 9 pm, prompting a blackout to neutralise the attack, officials said.
"In view of the impending situation, no leave of any kind, including vacation and sanction leave, is to be granted to any officer except on medical grounds, till further order," the order said.
A high-level committee of the Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) on Friday conducted a comprehensive spot visit to the Advanced Trauma Centre (ATC) at the hospital aimed to assess the preparedness and readiness of the facility in light of the ongoing tense situation between India and Pakistan.
The committee led by PGIMER Director Prof Vivek Lal reviewed the current preparations for managing patient influx amid the prevailing tense scenario.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday said that amid the India-Pakistan military conflict, his government has made arrangements to bring back students studying in institutions from northern and western India.
The state government made this arrangement after students studying at the Central Sanskrit University, Jammu, were ordered to vacate the campus.
Three people were injured Friday after debris from a Pakistani drone fell on a house here, police said.
Ferozepur Senior Superintendent of Police Bhupinder Singh said the crashing projectile from a Pakistani drone, destroyed by the army air defence system, landed in Village Khai Pheme Ke on a house, setting it on fire.
Lakhwinder Singh and his wife, and brother Monu Singh, were rushed in an injured state to a private hospital, said police. Lakhwinder remains critical.
The BJP, BJD and Congress organised different programmes here on Friday to express their solidarity with the country's armed forces and boost their morale.
The BJP and BJD organised mass lamp-lighting programmes before Ram Mandir and Shri Lingaraj temple here, respectively, this evening, to pray for the well-being of Indian soldiers.
BJP women's wing leaders and members lit earthen lamps in front of the Ram temple to show support for the Indian armed forces amid heightened military conflict between India and Pakistan.
Similarly, the BJD leaders and activists lit lamps before the Lingaraj temple here and prayed for the victory of Indian forces in the military conflict against Pakistan, said Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das.
Drones have been sighted at some locations ranging near the International Border and the Line of Control with Pakistan. These include suspected armed drones posing potential threats to civilian and military targets.
Regrettably, an armed drone targeted a civilian area in Ferozpur, resulting in severe injuries to members of a local family. The injured have been provided medical assistance and the area has been sanitised by security forces.
The Indian Armed Forces are maintaining a high state of alert, and all such aerial threats are being tracked and engaged using counter-drone systems. The situation is under close and constant watch, and prompt action is being taken wherever necessary.
Citizens, especially in border areas, are advised to remain indoors, limit unnecessary movement, and strictly follow safety instructions issued by local authorities. While there is no need for panic, heightened vigilance and precaution are essential.