In a change of tack along the Line of Control (LoC) in J&K, the Pakistan army used high-calibre weapons on November 13 that left five soldiers dead, top officials of the BSF and the Army said on Sunday, while paying tributes to the jawans.
Also read: India protests ceasefire violation by Pakistan forces
“Pakistan army resorted to unprovoked firing along the LoC in Kashmir [on November 13]. It resorted to use of heavy artillery and modern weapons,” I-G, BSF, Rajesh Mishra, while paying tributes to SI Rakesh Doval who died in the ceasefire violation in the Naugam Sector in north Kashmir.
Sources said both the Army and the BSF were taken by surprise by the calibre and range of artillery used in Kupwara, Baramulla and Bandipora districts.
“It was intense shelling. Many civilians were killed and property was destroyed. Human rights organisations must take note of the damage caused to the civilian properties and killing of civilians in the intense shelling by Pakistan,” IGP Mishra said.
At least five soldiers and four civilians were killed in the ceasefire violations.
The BSF has warned that around 300 militants are preparing to sneak in before the snow covers the passes in north Kashmir. “Security forces are ready to foil all infiltration bids.”
Lt. Gen. B.S. Raju, Chinar Corps Commander, while paying tributes to the soldiers, said: “It was an unprovoked artillery shelling by the Pakistan army.”
According to the Army, Havildar Hardhan Chandra Roy, 38; Naik Satai Bhushan Rameshrao, 28; Gunner Subodh Ghosh, 22 and Sepoy Jondhale Rushikesh Ramchandra, 20, were killed in the shelling.
“The mortal remains of the bravehearts were taken for last rites to their native places, where they would be laid to rest with full military honours. In this hour of grief, the Army stands in solidarity with these bereaved families and remains committed to their dignity and well-being,” an Army spokesman said.
Congress leader Taj Mohiuddin, who hails from the worst-affected Uri in Baramulla, said the Pakistan army had resorted to “indiscriminate shelling and firing”.
“The L-G administration should provide reasonable relief. There is an immediate need to construct underground bunkers in Uri,” he said.
