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Published : 26 Apr 2025, 10:46 AM
Indian and Pakistani troops have reportedly exchanged fire across the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir for the second consecutive night as tensions between the two countries escalated over the recent massacre of 26 civilians at a tourist hotspot in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
According to the Indian Army, multiple Pakistani posts across the LoC initiated "unprovoked" small arms fire, prompting Indian forces to retaliate, broadcaster NDTV reports. No casualties were reported in the exchange.
"On the night of Apr 25-26, 2025, unprovoked small firing was carried out by multiple Pakistan Army post all across the Line of Control in Kashmir. Indian troops responded appropriately with small arms. No casualties reported," the Indian Army said in a statement.
Speculative firing was also reported the night before. Military sources believe Pakistani forces are testing the readiness of Indian soldiers amid rising calls within India for a strong response against terror hubs across the border.
The flare-up at the LoC comes after India launched a series of tough measures following Tuesday’s Pahalgam terror attack, where five gunmen killed at least 26 civilians at Baisaran meadow, often called "Mini Switzerland". The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility. Sources say Lashkar chief Hafiz Saeed, mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, directed the operation.
In a swift reaction, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, accusing Pakistan of "sustained cross-border terrorism". Water Minister CR Patil vowed that "not a drop" of Indus water would flow to Pakistan, according to NDTV.
Vowing a harsh response, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Indian forces would hunt down every terrorist involved, promising a punishment "bigger than they can imagine".
Diplomatic ties between the two countries have also been severed. Both nations have recalled their diplomatic staff, halted visa services for each other’s citizens, and instructed visitors to return home within a short timeframe. Cross-border travel is unlikely to resume until tensions ease.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has suspended all bilateral agreements with India, including the Simla Agreement. The Wagah Border crossing -- once a major tourist draw with its daily flag-lowering ceremony -- has been shut down.
