Poonch: A ceasefire violation was reported along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district during the pre-dawn hours on Monday, with Pakistani troops allegedly opening fire on Indian positions in the Balakote-Tarkundi sector of Mendhar, triggering a retaliatory response from Indian soldiers.
Reports said an exchange of fire took place between troops stationed on either side of the LoC after firing was reported from across the border.
The incident occurred in the Balakote-Tarkundi area of Mendhar, a sector that has largely remained calm in recent years following the reaffirmation of the India-Pakistan ceasefire understanding.
According to initial reports, Indian troops responded after the firing from the Pakistan side, resulting in a brief exchange of fire during the early morning hours.
The incident marks the first reported ceasefire violation along the Line of Control in 2026 and the first such exchange of fire after a prolonged period of relative calm along the border.
The reported firing has drawn attention because ceasefire violations along the LoC have declined significantly in recent years compared to previous periods when cross-border firing incidents were frequent.
There was, however, no official confirmation from the Indian Army till the filing of this report. [KNT]
