In a fresh escalation along the Line of Control (LoC), Pakistani troops on Monday night opened unprovoked fire at several forward areas in Jammu and Kashmir, prompting a calibrated but firm response from the Indian Army, according to official sources.

The firing incidents occurred in multiple sectors including Kupwara, Baramulla, and Akhnoor, adding to a growing series of ceasefire violations in recent days. This latest breach marks the fifth consecutive day of such cross-border provocation, following the deadly terror strike in Pahalgam that claimed 26 civilian lives.

Military sources confirmed that the Indian side responded with restraint but operational precision, aiming to avoid civilian harm while reinforcing defensive preparedness across the affected sectors.

Series of Violations in April

April has seen a sharp rise in LoC tensions, with at least seven major ceasefire violations documented so far:

• April 1: A landmine explosion in the Krishna Ghati sector was believed to have been a cover for infiltration efforts, followed by Pakistani troops initiating small arms fire.

• April 22–23: The night of the Pahalgam attack witnessed gunfire exchanges in the Poonch district.

• April 24–25: Kupwara witnessed fresh violations during the early hours of the night.

• April 25–26: Reports emerged of indiscriminate firing across more than 30 locations along the LoC.

• April 26–27: Ceasefire breaches continued with two incidents reported again in Kupwara.

• April 28: On Monday night, Pakistan targeted Indian forward positions opposite Kupwara and Poonch districts with small arms fire.

India's Response and Strategic Shift

Following the Pahalgam massacre, which Indian authorities have attributed to Pakistan-based militants, New Delhi has rolled out a comprehensive response strategy. The Indian government has revoked the Indus Waters Treaty, withdrawn all Pakistani visa permits—particularly under the SAARC scheme—and downsized diplomatic presence in both nations. Additionally, border checkpoints at Attari and Octroi have been closed, while security forces along the LoC have been placed on high alert.

India has accused Pakistan of systematically aiding and abetting terror activities across the border. With growing pressure on Islamabad to rein in militant networks, ceasefire violations appear to be a calculated attempt to escalate tensions.