No ceasefire violation reported in Kashmir valley overnight
Srinagar: The Kashmir Valley experienced a peaceful night with no reported ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) after 11 p.m. on Saturday. This marked a significant lull following days of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, offering residents a rare respite from the sounds of military activity.
Local authorities confirmed that no incidents of cross-border firing or drone activity occurred overnight, a stark contrast to the previous evening when dozens of drones were spotted over the valley, breaching the newly agreed ceasefire. The calm allowed communities to regain a sense of normalcy, with residents like Shahjahan Dar from Rawalpora expressing gratitude for a restful night after days of disruption. “It’s been a while since we slept well,” Dar told, crediting both divine intervention and diplomatic efforts for the tranquility.
Despite the overnight peace, caution persists among border residents. Many who had fled to safer areas during the recent escalations are hesitant to return home immediately. Abdul Aziz, a resident of Uri that while the ceasefire is a hopeful sign, he and others plan to wait a few days to ensure stability. “We saw drones and rockets last night even after the ceasefire was announced,” he said, emphasizing a desire for a lasting truce.
The ceasefire, brokered through U.S.-mediated talks, was announced on Saturday but faced immediate challenges with reported violations by Pakistan, including drone incursions and artillery shelling. Indian forces responded firmly to these breaches, with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri urging Pakistan to address the violations responsibly. The absence of overnight incidents suggests a tentative step toward de-escalation, though officials remain vigilant.
As the region holds its breath, the quiet night offers a glimmer of hope for sustained peace along the volatile LoC. Both sides are scheduled to continue discussions, with military officials set to reconvene on May 12 to reinforce the fragile truce.