Ceasefire Violated Again: Pakistan Opens Fire in J&K, India to Hold Nationwide Civil Defence Drills in 244 Districts

New Delhi/Srinagar, May 6 — In a fresh escalation of cross-border tensions, Pakistan has once again violated the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir. The provocation comes just days after the deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists. In response to heightened security threats, the Government of India has ordered civil defence drills across 244 districts on May 7 to assess and enhance preparedness for potential emergencies.

Pakistan Breaches Ceasefire for 12th Consecutive Day

According to senior Indian military officials, the latest ceasefire violation occurred overnight between May 5 and 6, marking the 12th straight day of firing from across the border. Pakistani forces allegedly opened unprovoked fire using small arms from posts across the LoC, targeting Indian forward positions and civilian areas in Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar, Nowshera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor.

In retaliation, the Indian Army responded firmly and appropriately. Earlier, on Sunday-Monday night, Pakistani troops reportedly targeted Indian Army posts with mortar fire, raising further alarm in border villages.

Over the past 12 days, approximately 40 ceasefire violations have been reported, significantly impacting peace in the border regions and spreading tension among local residents.

India Steps Up Civil Preparedness Amid Growing Threat

In light of the increased cross-border aggression and the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has announced a nationwide civil defence preparedness drill. Scheduled for May 7, the drills will be conducted in 244 designated districts across the country.

A formal communication from the MHA has been sent to Chief Secretaries of all states and Union Territories. The objective is to evaluate and strengthen civil defence infrastructure, ensure coordination among agencies, and prepare civilians for any potential wartime or emergency situation.

The drills will simulate wartime scenarios, including air raid sirens, evacuation protocols, blackout measures, and emergency response activation. Key participants will include civil defence volunteers, home guards, NCC, NSS cadets, and local school and college students.

Border Tensions Heighten After Pahalgam Attack

The recent uptick in ceasefire violations follows a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 tourists dead and was reportedly orchestrated with cross-border support. Intelligence agencies suspect Pakistani handlers were involved in coordinating the assault, further straining already fragile bilateral relations.

Security has been tightened across all sensitive border regions, and forces remain on high alert. Civilian populations in affected areas have been advised to remain cautious, with authorities working to reinforce bunker readiness and communication networks.