Pakistan has intensified its cross-border shelling in Jammu, causing extensive damage to civilian infrastructure and triggering widespread fear among residents. The attacks, which began in the early hours on Saturday, have left several injured and claimed the life of a senior official, heightening concerns of further escalation.
Arvind Gupta, a BJP MLA from Jammu West, advised residents to stay on the ground floor amid the continuous shelling. Gupta said, “The shelling started at 4 am. At around 5.40 am, I was on the first floor of my house, which is around 50 metres from here. There was a sudden impact; I was a little scared. Three people were injured in the shelling.”
He further added, “The only reason behind the attack on residential areas is to cause panic in Jammu City. I appeal to the people not to gather wherever anything like this happens, so that nothing untoward happens there if an attack happens there again. People should sleep on the ground floor. Rajouri ADC too lost his life in the night.”
Shortly after, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his grief over the death of Raj Kumar Thappa, a senior Jammu and Kashmir Administration Services officer, in the shelling.
Also read: Pak missiles, drone blitz foiled by India in overnight battle
Omar Abdullah, in a heartfelt message on X, said, “Devastating news from Rajouri. We have lost a dedicated officer of the J&K Administration Services. Just yesterday, he accompanied the Deputy CM around the district and attended the online meeting I chaired. Today, the residence of the officer was hit by Pak shelling as they targeted Rajouri town, killing our Additional District Development Commissioner, Raj Kumar Thappa. I have no words to express my shock and sadness at this terrible loss of life. May his soul rest in peace.”
Reports from Rajouri indicate that civilian areas have been severely impacted, with smoke rising after loud explosions were reported. Farukh Ahmed Wani, a security official at a local hospital, confirmed that injured civilians had been brought in for treatment.
“One injured person has been brought here. Doctors and the entire team are ready. His treatment began immediately,” Wani said.
In a further escalation, Pakistani forces reportedly launched Fatah II missiles over Udhampur airbases, also targeting areas around Jammu City. Multiple drone attacks were reported across Srinagar, including the airport, on Friday night.
The situation remains tense as local authorities brace for potential further strikes.
Follow us
