12 killed, 57 injured in cross-border shelling in Jammu and Kashmir

At least 12 people, including four children, were killed and 57 others injured on Wednesday following intense shelling by the Pakistani Army across multiple areas in Jammu and Kashmir. The border district of Poonch was the worst affected, accounting for all civilian deaths and the majority of injuries. Several of the wounded remain in critical condition.

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The escalation followed the Indian Armed Forces' recent strikes on terrorist camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under "Operation Sindoor". In retaliation to the shelling, the Indian Army launched a strong response, reportedly destroying several Pakistani posts involved in the attacks and inflicting significant casualties.

Heavy shelling was reported along the Line of Control (LoC), especially in areas such as Balakote, Mendhar, Mankote, Krishna Ghati, Gulpur, Kerni, and even the district headquarters of Poonch. Residential buildings and vehicles sustained extensive damage. In Rajouri district, 10 civilians, including five children, were injured, while three others suffered wounds. In the Karnah sector of Kupwara, fires broke out in several homes due to the bombardment.

Amid rising hostilities, authorities have ordered the closure of all educational institutions in Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Rajouri, and Poonch districts. This marks the 13th consecutive night of cross-border firing, underscoring growing tensions in the region following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.

Security remains heightened as the situation along the LoC remains volatile.