Ceasefire Violation by Indian Troops Claims Another Life in AJK
• Death toll from recent cross-LoC shelling reaches 32
• Schools, colleges reopen across region today
• AJK leadership condemns Indian aggression, vows immediate relief for affected families
MUZAFFARABAD (May 13, 2025) — Tensions along the Line of Control (LoC) escalated once again late Sunday night as Indian troops violated the ceasefire agreement, resorting to unprovoked shelling in southern Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The attack claimed the life of a 32-year-old man and raised the ongoing conflict’s civilian death toll to 32.
According to Sardar Waheed Khan, Director General of the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), the shelling began shortly after 11:00 PM in the Nakyal sector of Kotli district, targeting multiple civilian villages with small and heavy weapons in a 40-minute offensive.
One More Civilian Martyred
In Bari Dhara Mathrani, one of the hardest-hit villages, Muhammad Shahid, son of Muhammad Taj, sustained fatal injuries from mortar shrapnel. He was initially treated at THQ Hospital Nakyal, but succumbed to his wounds around 1:00 AM after being shifted to DHQ Hospital Kotli.
SDMA also confirmed a brief shelling episode in Haveli district, further heightening fears in the border region.
Rising Toll from Hostilities
Shahid’s death brings the total number of civilians martyred in the recent surge of cross-LoC violence to 32. The victims include:
- 12 in Kotli
- 6 each in Bhimber and Poonch
- 3 in Muzaffarabad
- 2 each in Neelum and Haveli
- 1 in Bagh
Additionally, 123 civilians have been injured since the escalation began, with many still receiving critical care.
Educational Institutions Reopen Today
Following a temporary suspension of academic activities due to security concerns, the AJK government has announced the reopening of all schools and colleges from today (Tuesday). A revised schedule for postponed examinations will be issued separately by the AJK Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) in Mirpur.
AJK Premier Visits LoC, Lauds Army’s Response
AJK Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq visited forward posts in Barnala sector (Bhimber district) on Monday to show solidarity with Pakistan’s armed forces and the affected communities.
Commending the army’s swift and robust response to Indian aggression, Mr. Haq praised the effectiveness of “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos,” which he claimed had compelled Indian forces to retreat.
“The Pakistan Army has made our national defence invincible. Their professionalism and morale are commendable,” he said, also applauding the Pakistan Air Force for its internationally recognized combat capabilities.
He condemned India’s deliberate targeting of civilians and assured the public that compensation to the families of the martyrs and injured had been disbursed within 24 hours.
Mr. Haq pledged to personally visit all affected areas and oversee relief and rehabilitation efforts, emphasizing the government’s commitment to stand by its people in times of crisis.
Large crowds greeted his convoy with pro-Pakistan and pro-army slogans, reflecting public solidarity amid the turmoil.
President Orders Urgent Relief Measures
Separately, AJK President Barrister Sultan Mahmood also condemned India’s targeting of innocent civilians, calling it a “blatant act of frustration and inhumanity.”
He expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and directed relevant authorities to:
- Immediately assess damages
- Ensure seamless medical aid to the injured
- Provide uninterrupted relief support to affected households
Conclusion
As hostilities intensify along the LoC, AJK’s civilian population continues to bear the brunt of escalating aggression. While the leadership reaffirms its support for the armed forces and mobilizes swift relief, the international community’s silence on ceasefire violations and civilian casualties remains a pressing concern.
