In the latest instance of ceasefire violation by Pakistan, Army jawan Bikas Gurung lost his life in Nowshera on Saturday, 16 June. Sepoy Gurung was killed as Pakistani troopers targeted a patrol party along the Line of Control in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of mortars on routine Indian Army patrol, 700 metres inside Indian territory in Nowshera sector along the Line of Control (LoC) this morning.Senior Army officer to PTI
Rifleman Gurung was grievously injured in the firing and succumbed to injuries. The 21-year-old soldier belonged to Khunka Khuki village of Manipur and is survived by his mother, reported PTI.
The latest instance of ceasefire violation comes after four BSF personnel, including an assistant commandant-rank officer, were killed in firing by Pakistani Rangers along the International Border in Samba district on June 13.
No Exchange of Sweets at Wagah Border This Eid
Owing to the continuous ceasefire violations by Pakistan, the Border Security Force (BSF) troops and Pakistani Rangers did not exchange sweets at the Attari Wagah border on Eid this year.
In May, Home Minister Rajnath Singh had announced suspension of operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan. It was clarified that operations would resume in case the security forces came under attack.
No Decision on Ceasefire By India Yet
As the deadline ends on Saturday, the government is yet to decide whether the ceasefire will be extended.
News18 reported Minister of State for Home Hansraj Ahir as saying that the decision on whether or not to extend the Ramzan ceasefire has not been taken yet.
People in Kashmir welcomed the central government’s decision to suspend operations. We got a good response after the suspension of operations in Jammu and Kashmir (during Ramzan). Whatever be the next step, it will be based on their (Kashmiris) sentiments/betterment.Hansraj Ahir, MoS Home to News18
Journalist’s Killing to Impact Ceasefire Decision?
The killing of senior journalist Shujaat Bukhari in Srinagar, on 14 June, is likely to impact the government’s decision on the ceasefire status.
Speaking on the senior journalist’s murder, Ahir told News18, “We condemn the incident and stern action will be taken against the killers. Kashmir is a big issue for us and our government, our Prime Minister Narendra Modi will do whatever it takes to ensure peace in the Kashmir Valley. It is very unfortunate that Pakistan continuously interferes in Kashmir’s affairs.”
Man Killed in Clashes Amid Eid Celebrations
One person was killed during clashes between protesters and security forces in Kashmir, even as people thronged to mosques across the Valley for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, reported PTI.
Sheeraz Ahmed was hurt during the clashes at Brakpora in Anantnag, and he later succumbed to injuries. Another person sustained injuries in clashes in Safakadal.
A police official told PTI that clashes between protestors and law enforcing agencies were reported from Sopore and Kupwara areas in north Kashmir, adding that the situation in other parts of the Valley was peaceful so far.
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