Pakistan changing tack along Line of Control: BSF officer

In a change of tack, the Pakistan army used high-calibre weapons during November 13’s unprovoked ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir that left five soldiers dead, top officials of the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Indian Army said on Sunday.

“Pakistan army resorted to unprovoked firing along the LoC in Kashmir [on November 13]. It resorted to use of heavy artillery and modern weapons,” said Inspector General of BSF, Kashmir, 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.

Five security forces personnel were among the 11 persons killed in multiple instances of ceasefire violation by Pakistan along the LoC between the Gurez and Uri sectors of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday (November 13), even as the Indian Army caused extensive damage to Pakistan Army’s infrastructure in retaliation.

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.