NEW DELHI: For the fifth consecutive night, Indian and Pakistani troops exchanged fire in the contentious region of Kashmir, as reported by the Indian army on Tuesday (April 29). This escalation follows a week marked by a violent attack on tourists that has strained relations significantly.
According to the Indian army, clashes occurred overnight along the Line of Control, which serves as the unofficial border in the heavily fortified area of Kashmir, known for its challenging Himalayan terrain.
Pakistan has not yet confirmed the incident.
Tensions between the two nuclear nations have sharply deteriorated after India accused Pakistan of supporting a recent deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals.
Islamabad has denied these allegations. Since then, both nations have engaged in cross-border gunfire in Kashmir, exchanged harsh statements, expelled each other’s citizens, and ordered the closure of their shared border.
India asserted that during the overnight hours from Monday to Tuesday, the “Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked small arms fire across the Line of Control,” particularly in areas near the Kupwara and Baramulla districts, as well as the Akhnoor sector.
The Indian army indicated that its troops “responded in a measured and effective manner” to the provocations, though no casualties have been reported.
India has stated that Tuesday is the final day for Pakistani citizens to exit the region.
Observers express concern that the heated rhetoric could lead to potential military actions.
