The Indian Army officially complained to the Pakistan Army about a recent bout of activity along the Line of Control (LoC), such as attempts to push in militants, breaches of the 2021 ceasefire pact and the recent mine blast in the Poonch district. These were put on the agenda at a flag meeting between the nations, aiming to maintain peace along the volatile border.

The crossfire, at the level of battalion commanders in the Krishna Ghati sector of Poonch, was preceded by a grim incident on April 1. A massive explosion, caused by a landmine, left one civilian injured in the region. Indian forces also came under unprovoked firing from the opposite side.

Infiltration and Mine Incidents on Rise

India, in formal reports, formal reportsexpressed its serious concern regarding a claimed increase in efforts at infiltration by terrorists allegedly sponsored by Pakistan. The efforts have been viewed as blatant violations of the understanding between the two nations to uphold the 2021 ceasefire pact, which had been welcomed as a breakthrough to ease tensions along the LoC.

Pakistan should respect the ceasefire and not assist militants attempting to infiltrate Indian territories," asserted Indian Army senior leadership. The recent mine explosion is not an isolated incident. Inputs from intelligence reports suggest the likelihood of mine laying to injure civilians or security personnel. The April 1 explosion near a civilian colony fuels speculation on attempts at destabilizing the border area.

India Reaffirms Commitment to Peace

Even if there is violent action, Indian authorities unequivocally informed the Pakistanis during the flag meeting that India still maintains its commitment to peace and stability on the LoC. They further declared that future violations would demonstrate a stern and proportionate response.

Indian troops keep a sharp eye in open zones along the border, particularly regions like Poonch and Rajouri that have witnessed history's high rate of infiltration and ceasefire violations.

The Army is also taking the pro-active step of reaching out to local masses in general for sensitization and familiarizing them with safety protocols and ensuring rigid compliance with the same in areas where landmines are hazardous to civilian life.

Ceasefire Agreement Under Pressure

The India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement, announced in February 2021, had seen a sharp decline in cross-border firing for nearly two years. But the last few months have seen an alarming trend of ceasefire violations and attempted intrusions and raising questions over the truce's sustainability.

Defense officials warn that increased local border incidents would be eroding hard-won local peace. They underline the need for sustained negotiations and meticulous enforcement of conditions to avert escalation.