Ceasefire Broken: Pakistan Targets Indian Posts Along LoC Amid Rising Kashmir Tensions | Special Report

Tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan have escalated significantly following a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. The incident has led to a series of retaliatory actions, diplomatic fallout, and heightened military activities on both sides.​ The Pahalgam Attack: Catalyst for Escalation,On April 22, 2025, a militant attack in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including 25 Hindu tourists, one Christian tourist, and one local Muslim. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack. India accused Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism, an allegation that Pakistan denied, calling for a neutral investigation. ​

Cross-Border Skirmishes and Military Responses,Following the attack, cross-border firing along the LoC intensified, with India accusing Pakistan of unprovoked attacks. Pakistan's Defence Minister warned of a possible Indian military incursion, prompting military reinforcements. ​In response to the heightened tensions, Indian security forces conducted a severe crackdown across the region, including mass detentions and house raids, which has instilled widespread fear among civilians. ​

Diplomatic Fallout and Retaliatory Measures,The incident triggered a diplomatic crisis between the two nations:​India,Suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.Cancelled visas and imposed a travel ban for Pakistani nationals.Expelled Pakistani diplomats and withdrew its own from Pakistan.Closed borders and suspended all trade, including through third countries.​

Pakistan:Denied involvement in the attack and called for a neutral investigation.Closed its airspace to Indian aircraft.Suspended the Shimla Agreement.Warned against any violation of the water treaty. ​Historical Context and Ongoing Disputes, The Kashmir conflict has been a longstanding issue between India and Pakistan since the partition of 1947. The region has witnessed cycles of violence and fleeting peace, with over 70,000 lives lost and thousands displaced due to the ongoing conflict since the late 1980s uprising. India's revocation of Kashmir's autonomy in 2019 has led to growing local resentment and suppression of dissent. tensions between India and Pakistan have sharply escalated following a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, leading to intensified cross-border skirmishes along the Line of Control (LoC).​

The Pahalgam Attack and Its Aftermath, On April 22, 2025, militants attacked a tourist group in Pahalgam, killing 26 people, predominantly Hindu civilians. The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. India asserts that the attackers were supported by Pakistan’s military intelligence, a claim Pakistan denies, calling for a neutral investigation .​ In response, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and revoked visas for Pakistani nationals. Pakistan retaliated by suspending the Simla Agreement, closing its airspace to Indian aircraft, and expelling Indian diplomats .​

Escalation Along the Line of Control, Since April 24, there have been daily reports of ceasefire violations along the LoC. Indian officials report unprovoked small arms fire from Pakistani forces across multiple sectors, prompting retaliatory measures . Pakistan claims to have downed an Indian surveillance drone in Bhimber district .​

Both nations have increased military readiness, with India conducting naval missile tests and enhancing air force patrols, while Pakistan has reinforced troops along the border .​

Broader Implications, The recent violence has severely impacted Kashmir's tourism industry, with over a million cancellations reported and authorities closing more than half of the region's tourist sites . Indian security forces have detained nearly 2,000 individuals and demolished homes of suspected militants, actions that have drawn criticism from local leaders .​ The situation underscores the longstanding and complex nature of the Kashmir conflict, rooted in historical grievances and territorial disputes dating back to the partition of 1947 Between April 24 and April 28, 2025, the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan experienced five consecutive nights of cross-border firing, marking a significant escalation in tensions following the April 22 Pahalgam attack.​

Timeline of Escalation, April 24–25: Indian military officials reported skirmishes and exchanges of gunfire at multiple locations along the LoC, the de facto border in the disputed territory. The clashes continued throughout April 25, with tensions between the two sides remaining high. ​ April 25–26: On the night of April 25-26, reportedly multiple Pakistani military outposts initiated "unprovoked small arms firing" across various sectors along the LoC. According to Indian Army statements, their forces responded "appropriately with small arms fire". ​ April 26–27: Heavy skirmishes took place at Leepa Valley with Pakistan deploying heavy weaponry including the M110 self-propelled artillery system to the area during the night of April 26-27. ​ April 27–28: On April 27, The New York Times reported that India was building a case for a military response against Pakistan among foreign diplomats, rather than seeking de-escalation. ​April 28–29: On April 28, Pakistani Defense Minister Asif stated that a military incursion by India is imminent. The incident has significantly raised tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors, with India accusing Pakistan of supporting militant activities in Kashmir, a disputed region. ​

Strategic and Diplomatic Implications, The sustained hostilities have strained the 2021 ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. Both nations have engaged in diplomatic offensives, with India suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan closing its airspace to Indian aircraft. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions, urging both sides to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue. ​India and Pakistan Exchange Fire Along LoC Amid Rising Tensions.Indian military says Pakistani troops fired at positions along the border in disputed KashmirPakistan defence minister says military incursion by India is imminent. Pakistan is preparing for 'imminent' Indian attack

The situation along the LoC remains volatile, with both nations on high alert. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, emphasizing the need for de-escalation to prevent further conflict. In the wake of the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, India is intensifying its military preparedness along the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. The Indian government attributes the attack to Pakistan-backed militants, specifically the Resistance Front, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba. While Pakistan denies these allegations, tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors have escalated significantly.​ 🇮🇳 India's Military Posture and Strategic Readiness, Exercise Aakraman:The Indian Air Force (IAF) has initiated "Exercise Aakraman," a comprehensive military drill aimed at enhancing operational readiness. This exercise involves frontline combat aircraft such as Rafale and Su-30MKI fighters, along with the deployment of S-400 air defense systems and Garud commandos. The drills focus on precision strikes, electronic warfare, and joint operations across air, land, and sea domains. ​

Naval and Air Force Activities:India has conducted naval missile tests and increased air force sorties as a demonstration of military readiness. These actions are part of a broader strategy to showcase India's capability to respond to any aggression. ​ Strategic Military Doctrines:India's military strategy includes the implementation of the "Cold Start" doctrine, which emphasizes rapid mobilization and offensive operations to deter or respond to threats without crossing nuclear thresholds. Additionally, the establishment of Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs) aims to enhance joint operations among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, ensuring swift and coordinated responses to regional threats. ​Domestic Security Measures,Crackdown in Kashmir: In response to the Pahalgam attack, Indian security forces have intensified operations in Jammu and Kashmir. This includes mass detentions, demolition of suspected militant hideouts, and increased surveillance to dismantle terrorist infrastructure. ​ Diplomatic and Economic Actions:India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Wagah-Attari border crossing, and expelled Pakistani diplomats. These measures aim to exert diplomatic and economic pressure on Pakistan to cease support for cross-border terrorism. ​

Regional and International Implications, The escalation has drawn international concern, given the risk of conflict between two nuclear-armed states. Pakistan has warned of potential retaliation, including nuclear responses, if provoked. Global leaders are urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further deterioration of the situation. ​India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate Following Pahalgam Attack,India shuts over half of Kashmir tourist spots in security review.Pakistan is preparing for 'imminent' Indian attack.

Grief turns to fear in Kashmir as Indian forces crack down after attack,As of April 29, 2025, the perpetrators of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, remain at large. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists and injuries to over 20 others, has prompted an extensive manhunt and heightened security measures in the region.​

Manhunt and Suspect Identification, Indian security forces have launched a comprehensive search operation to apprehend the attackers. Authorities have released sketches of the suspected assailants, identified through survivor testimonies. The suspects have been named as Asif Shaikh, Suleman Shah, and Abu Talha. Despite these efforts, the individuals have not yet been captured. ​ Crackdown on Suspected Militants

In response to the attack, Indian authorities have intensified operations against suspected militants in the region. This includes the demolition of homes belonging to individuals alleged to have links to the attackers. For instance, the residence of Adil Hussain Thoker in the village of Guree was demolished, despite his family's denials of his involvement. These actions have sparked debates over their legality and potential impact on civilian populations. ​Security Measures and Regional Impact, The attack has led to significant disruptions in the region. Authorities have closed 48 out of 87 government-authorized tourist resorts in Indian-administered Kashmir as a precautionary measure. The tourism industry, a vital component of the local economy, has suffered over a million trip cancellations, undermining recent efforts to portray Kashmir as a stable destination. ​ Broader Implications, The incident has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, with both nations taking diplomatic and military measures in response. India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, ceased visa issuance, recalled diplomats, and closed its border with Pakistan. Pakistan, in turn, has closed its airspace to Indian flights. ​The situation remains volatile, with ongoing security operations and heightened alertness along the Line of Control. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.​Pahalgam Attack: Ongoing Manhunt and Regional Tensions, Authorities close dozens of tourist resorts in Indian-controlled Kashmir following deadly attack Grief turns to fear in Kashmir as Indian forces crack down after attack.

Kashmir attack: terrorists 'will face justice' after 26 deathsThe manhunt for the perpetrators of the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack remains a top priority for Indian authorities. The assault, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists in Baisaran Valley, has intensified security operations across Jammu and Kashmir.​ Ongoing Search and Identification Efforts Indian security forces, including the Army, paramilitary units, and Jammu and Kashmir Police, have launched extensive cordon-and-search operations. Helicopters are being utilized to survey the upper reaches of the Pir Panjal range, where the militants are believed to have fled. ​

Authorities have released sketches of three suspects: Adil Hussain Thoker from Anantnag, and two Pakistani nationals, Ali Bhai (also known as Talha Bhai) and Hashim Musa (also known as Suleiman). All are affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group. A bounty of Rs 20 lakh has been announced for information leading to each suspect's capture. ​ Security Measures and Regional ImpactIn response to the attack, Indian authorities have intensified operations against suspected militants in the region. This includes the demolition of homes belonging to individuals alleged to have links to the attackers. For instance, the residence of Adil Hussain Thoker in the village of Guree was demolished, despite his family's denials of his involvement. These actions have sparked debates over their legality and potential impact on civilian populations. ​The attack has led to significant disruptions in the region. Authorities have closed 48 out of 87 government-authorized tourist resorts in Indian-administered Kashmir as a precautionary measure. The tourism industry, a vital component of the local economy, has suffered over a million trip cancellations, undermining recent efforts to portray Kashmir as a stable destination. ​

International and Diplomatic Repercussions,The incident has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, with both nations taking diplomatic and military measures in response. India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, ceased visa issuance, recalled diplomats, and closed its border with Pakistan. Pakistan, in turn, has closed its airspace to Indian flights. ​ The situation remains volatile, with ongoing security operations and heightened alertness along the Line of Control. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.​ Latest Developments in the Pahalgam Attack Manhunt, Tourist Filming Himself on a Zipline Unknowingly Captures Chilling Footage of Massacre in India That Killed 26 Grief turns to fear in Kashmir as Indian forces crack down after attack,Authorities close dozens of tourist resorts in Indian-controlled Kashmir following deadly attack. The manhunt for the perpetrators of the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack—where 26 tourists were killed in Baisaran Valley, Jammu and Kashmir—remains a top priority for Indian authorities. The attack, claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, has intensified security operations and heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.​ Manhunt Intensifies,Indian security forces, including the Army, paramilitary units, and Jammu and Kashmir Police, have launched extensive cordon-and-search operations. Helicopters are being utilized to survey the upper reaches of the Pir Panjal range, where the militants are believed to have fled. ​ Authorities have released sketches of three suspects: Adil Hussain Thoker from Anantnag, and two Pakistani nationals, Ali Bhai (also known as Talha Bhai) and Hashim Musa (also known as Suleiman). All are affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group. A bounty of Rs 20 lakh has been announced for information leading to each suspect's capture. ​ Security Measures and Regional Impact, In response to the attack, Indian authorities have intensified operations against suspected militants in the region. This includes the demolition of homes belonging to individuals alleged to have links to the attackers. For instance, the residence of Adil Hussain Thoker in the village of Guree was demolished, despite his family's denials of his involvement. These actions have sparked debates over their legality and potential impact on civilian populations. ​ The attack has led to significant disruptions in the region. Authorities have closed 48 out of 87 government-authorized tourist resorts in Indian-administered Kashmir as a precautionary measure. The tourism industry, a vital component of the local economy, has suffered over a million trip cancellations, undermining recent efforts to portray Kashmir as a stable destination. ​

International and Diplomatic Repercussions, The incident has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, with both nations taking diplomatic and military measures in response. India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, ceased visa issuance, recalled diplomats, and closed its border with Pakistan. Pakistan, in turn, has closed its airspace to Indian flights. ​The situation remains volatile, with ongoing security operations and heightened alertness along the Line of Control. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation.​Heightened Tensions and Security Measures Following Pahalgam Attack,Pakistan is preparing for 'imminent' Indian attackAuthorities close dozens of tourist resorts in Indian-controlled Kashmir following deadly attack.

Indian security forces have reportedly located the perpetrators of the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam attack on four separate occasions during ongoing search operations in the dense forests surrounding the Baisaran Valley. Despite these sightings, the attackers have managed to evade capture, leveraging the challenging terrain to their advantage.​Multiple Sightings and Evasion, The Indian Army, in coordination with Central Armed Police Forces and Jammu & Kashmir Police, has intensified cordon-and-search operations in the forested areas near Pahalgam. According to officials, the attackers were visually identified four times, and there was at least one exchange of fire. However, the militants successfully escaped each time, utilizing the thick forest cover and difficult terrain to avoid apprehension. An officer involved in the operation stated, "The forests are very thick, and it’s not easy to chase someone even after visibly locating them. But we are sure we will get them; it’s only a matter of days." ​ Intensified Security Measures ,In response to the attack and the ongoing manhunt, Indian authorities have implemented stringent security measures across the region. These include demolishing homes of suspected militants, detaining individuals with alleged links to insurgent groups, and increasing military presence in sensitive areas. The crackdown aims to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and prevent further attacks. ​Broader Implications,The Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, has escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. India has accused Pakistan-based militants of orchestrating the attack, leading to diplomatic strains, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and closure of border crossings. Pakistan has denied involvement and warned of potential retaliation if provoked. ​The international community has expressed concern over the rising hostilities, urging both nations to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further escalationTensions between India and Pakistan have escalated following the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. In the aftermath, there have been multiple reports of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC), undermining the fragile truce established in February 2021.​

Ceasefire Violations and Military Engagements,Since April 24, Indian and Pakistani forces have exchanged small arms fire across various sectors of the LoC, including the Leepa Valley and Tangdhar regions. Indian military officials have characterized these incidents as "unprovoked" firings initiated by Pakistani troops, prompting retaliatory responses. Notably, on the night of April 25–26, Pakistani military outposts reportedly engaged in small arms fire, to which Indian forces responded appropriately. These skirmishes have persisted for several consecutive nights, raising concerns about a potential escalation into a broader conflict .​Diplomatic Fallout and Regional Impact, The ceasefire violations have exacerbated diplomatic tensions between the two nations. India has accused Pakistan of supporting the militant groups responsible for the Pahalgam attack, leading to the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, revocation of visas for Pakistani nationals, and the expulsion of Pakistani diplomats. In response, Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian flights, suspended the Simla Agreement, and expelled Indian diplomats .​These developments have disrupted cross-border trade and strained bilateral relations, with both countries engaging in symbolic deportations and increasing military readiness along the LoC. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating situation, urging both sides to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further deterioration .​

International Reactions and Calls for Restraint, Global actors, including China and the United Nations, have called for de-escalation and peaceful resolution of the conflict. China has urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and take measures to reduce tensions. The United Nations has emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire and engaging in constructive dialogue to address underlying issues .​Despite these appeals, the situation remains volatile, with both nations maintaining heightened military alertness along the LoC. The potential for further escalation underscores the fragility of peace in the region and the need for sustained diplomatic efforts to resolve longstanding disputes.Who Controls Security in Jammu and Kashmir?After the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, the constitutional special status of Jammu and Kashmir was revoked. This had significant implications:Union Territory Status,Jammu and Kashmir became a Union Territory with a legislature (like Delhi), while Ladakh became a Union Territory without a legislature.Under this new setup, the Union Home Ministry (Government of India) retained full control over "public order" and "police", even though the region has an elected legislative assembly.

Governor/Lieutenant Governor's Role,The Lieutenant Governor (LG) of J&K, appointed by the President of India, holds executive control over law and order, not the elected Chief Minister or cabinet.The LG reports directly to the Union Home Ministry, which decides all key security operations and coordination with paramilitary forces and the army.Security Forces in ChargeIndian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF),Border Security Force (BSF),National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Intelligence Bureau (IB)These agencies are under the direct command of the central government.Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP): Operational in maintaining local law and order, but often under command of central agencies in counter-insurgency and anti-terror ops.

Legal Backing,The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 explicitly places "police" and "public order" under the exclusive jurisdiction of the central government, unlike in full-fledged states. Impact on Local Governance, While the elected government (once elections are held) may control education, health, and local development, they do not direct the security forces or make independent decisions about:Counter-terrorism strategyDeployment of armed forces,Internet shutdowns,Curfews or restrictions

Current SituationAs of 2025, J&K has no elected assembly; the region has been under direct central rule via the LG’s office since the last legislative assembly was dissolved in 2018. Elections have been delayed multiple times, citing security concerns.Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has been severely impacted following the April 22, 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists. Here's a clear, factual overview of the current situation for tourists: Tourism Status in Jammu & Kashmir (as of April 2025) Massive Disruptions, After the attack, authorities shut down 48 out of 87 government-authorized tourist resorts across Indian-administered Kashmir.These closures are part of sweeping security measures to prevent further incidents.Over 1 Million Trip Cancellations,Tour operators report over one million cancellations, including:Honeymoon bookings,Summer vacation packagesAmarnath Yatra pilgrimages, The tourism economy, a major livelihood for locals, has been hit hard.Heavy Security Presence,Tourists currently in Kashmir face:Frequent checkpointsRandom ID checks, Movement restrictions, especially in southern districts like Anantnag and Pulwama, The Indian Army and paramilitary forces have taken over many public spaces and roads. Tourist Zones Affected, Popular spots such as Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and parts of Gulmarg have either limited access or are under surveillance.Hotels have been asked to share guest details daily with local police.

Government Advisory,The J&K Tourism Department has paused promotion campaigns and issued advisories urging people to reconsider travel plans.The Ministry of Home Affairs has not formally banned tourism, but it is discouraging non-essential travel. Is It Safe to Travel Now?Not advisable.Due to:Ongoing military operationsAn active manhunt for the attackersCeasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC),A tense and uncertain environment Quotes from Local Stakeholders, Hotel owner in Srinagar: “We were finally recovering post-COVID and Article 370 fallout, and now this attack has destroyed everything.”Tourist from Delhi: “The army told us to leave immediately. We didn’t even finish our second day of the trip.”