#IndiaStrikesBack: Schools close to LoC shut as Pakistan violates ceasefire
What's the story
Amid exchange of heavy gunfire between troops of India and Pakistan in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir, the government has decided to shut schools within five kilometers of Line of Control (LoC). Exams will be postponed as well. Pakistani troops violated ceasefire on Tuesday hours after IAF conducted an unprecedented operation. Notably, IAF destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest camp in Balakot, Pakistan. Here's more.
Tensions
Backstory: Pakistan failed to act against Jaish, IAF launched operation
After Pakistan failed to take concrete steps against terrorism, IAF launched a discreet operation on the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday. Mirage-2000 jets destroyed the hilltop camp of Jaish, the outfit which executed Pulwama attack on February 14. A large number of terrorists were killed, the government stated. Meanwhile, Pakistan had been violating ceasefire before IAF struck, but it got escalated after the operation.
Violation
Looking at the areas Pakistan targeted
According to an Indian Army statement, Pakistan started heavy shelling around 6:30 PM on Tuesday. The Pakistani army targeted Krishna Gati, Balakote, Khari Karmara, Mankote, Tarkundi in Poonch district, Kalal, Baba Khori, Kalsian, Laam and Jhangar areas in Rajouri and Pallanwala and Laleali in Jammu. Indian jawans were retaliating heavily, the statement added and revealed 5 soldiers got injured in the gunfight.
Gunfire
Five soldiers get injured, Pakistani posts destroyed
Reports claimed two soldiers were shifted to hospital for treatment while three others suffered minor injuries. Pakistani army was targeting forward posts and civilian areas, reports claimed. Notably, the Indian army was able to inflict serious damage as five Pakistani posts were destroyed. After assessing the situation, J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik asked authorities to take measures to ensure peace in the state.
Encounter
Meanwhile, security forces fought terrorists in Shopian
While the Indian army retaliated strongly to Pakistan's violation, security forces were locked in another gunbattle with terrorists in Shopian district. Forces launched an operation in Memander area after learning about the presence of terrorists. The encounter reportedly began at 4:20 AM and had stopped at the time of press. Security officials have started searching the area, according to ANI.
Details
India and Pakistan's tension escalated after Pulwama attack
Tensions between India and Pakistan heightened after the Pulwama attack, in which 40 soldiers were martyred. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised the country the sacrifices won't be forgotten. Reportedly, it was IAF which suggested air strikes to the government a day after the attack. The operation was planned for 11 days and executed with precision around 3:30 AM on February 26.