Two BSF jawans killed, 3 civilians injured as Pakistan violates ceasefire in J-K

Two Border Security Force (BSF) personnel were killed after Pakistan Rangers resorted to firing along the International Border in Jammu early on Sunday, triggering heavy gunfight between the two sides in Pargwal sector of Akhnoor.

Three villagers were injured during the heavy shelling by Pakistan in Pargwal sector. At least 10 BSF posts and 30 villages were targeted by the Pakistani forces.

Pargwal police post in-charge Brij Lal Sharma said, “Around 2:15 am on Sunday, two BSF men were killed in sniper fire by Pakistan across the International Border in Pargwal sector of Akhnoor sub division in Jammu.”

He said heavy exchange of fire was on between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers.

Another police official said Pargwal market was being targeted by the Pakistani troops and explosions of mortar shells could be heard in Jammu city.

An official said Pakistan Rangers of 21 Chenab Rangers opened sniper fire at BSF personnel at Jaman Bela post of 33 Battalion in Pragwal sector. “BSF constable VK Pandey (27) and ASI SN Yadav (48) died on the spot and mortar firing started between both the sides, which is continuing,” he said.

The three injured civilians were identified as Sulakshana Devi (25), Bansi Lal (40) from Pargwal, and Balwinder Singh (22) of Jattan De Kothe.

They were shifted to a primary health centre in Pargwal for treatment.

On May 29, Pakistani director general of military operations called his Indian counterpart lieutenant general Anil Chauhan over hotline with a proposal to undertake “sincere measures” to improve the border situation and spare civilians hardships. The Indian DGMO had agreed to the proposal.

Soon after the DGMOs talk, chief minister Mehbooba Mufti had welcomed the move and had hoped restoration of the ceasefire agreement in letter and spirit.