Intense shelling, and loud explosions have been heard in two border areas of Indian Kashmir - Police Officer, Witnesses.

Intense shelling, and loud explosions have been heard in two border areas of Indian Kashmir - Police Officer, Witnesses.

Article:

Intense shelling and loud explosions have been reported in two border areas of Indian Kashmir, according to local police and witnesses. The incidents come amidst a backdrop of rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people [1].

The Union Home Ministry has instructed all states to conduct civil defence drills on Wednesday, May 7, to address the "new and complex threats" posed by the escalating situation [1]. These drills, which will be conducted in various districts across the country, aim to enhance preparedness and identify gaps in civil defence mechanisms [1].

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to pursue the perpetrators of the attack and those involved in its conspiracy to the "ends of the earth" [1]. The Indian Air Force has also been instructed to conduct exercises along the International Border in Rajasthan, starting from Wednesday night [1].

The cross-border firing, which has continued for the 12th straight night, has added to the growing unease among the public and has prompted the government to take proactive measures to ensure public safety [1]. The drills, which will involve various government agencies and local authorities, are expected to simulate emergency situations and improve response times.

The developments come as the United Nations Security Council begins closed-door consultations to discuss the India-Pakistan tensions and the Pahalgam terror attack [1]. While the specifics of the discussions are not yet known, it is expected that the Security Council will call for peace and express concern over the rising threat of terrorism in the region [1].

Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has condemned the Congress party's claims that the government ignored intelligence about the possible terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir [1]. The BJP has accused the Congress of attempting to "lower the morale" of the armed forces during a critical time [1].

As the situation remains volatile, the government has urged the public to remain calm and follow the instructions provided by local authorities during the drills and any potential emergency situations [1].

References:

[1] https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-pakistan-tensions-updates-cross-border-firing-continues-for-12th-night-un-body-begins-closed-door-consultations-8340295