Despite Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strong warning to Pakistan over its continued support for cross-border terrorism, residents of border villages in Jammu and Kashmir remain deeply anxious, fearing a potential breakdown of the ceasefire understanding between the two nations.
Tensions escalated on Monday night in Samba district, as explosions rocked border areas, damaging homes and spreading panic among villagers. According to locals, splinters from a blast struck a house, damaging its roof and kitchen. The incident is suspected to be a result of shelling or drone strikes from Pakistan, once again raising concerns about Pakistan’s violation of the cessation of hostilities.
“We were clueless last night, but we heard loud noises,” said Dalbeer Singh, a local resident. “In the morning, we saw the damage to one of the houses. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but there is fear all around. The police visited later and assessed the situation.”
Krishan Chand, another villager, recounted the terrifying moment. “I was sitting outside when an explosion occurred. We ran inside. Later, we saw remains of some explosive in our kitchen. The women were cooking—it could have been worse. There is constant fear because we don’t know what’s coming next.”
Prakar Singh, from a nearby village, said he was trying to comfort his children during the drone firing. “Pakistan is clearly not interested in peace. The government must take action if Pakistan continues to violate the ceasefire.”
Army sources confirmed that a small number of drones had crossed into the Samba sector but added that India’s air defence systems had successfully intercepted and neutralized them. “The situation is under control and there is no reason for panic,” officials stated.
The incident comes shortly after PM Modi’s national address, in which he reaffirmed India’s uncompromising stance against terrorism, especially in light of Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The Prime Minister reiterated that “terror and talks cannot go together” and emphasized that “blood and water cannot flow together,” referencing the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan.
While New Delhi asserts that Pakistan must dismantle its terror infrastructure to restore normalcy, the ground reality in border villages tells a different story—of fear, anxiety, and growing frustration among civilians who continue to bear the brunt of cross-border aggression.
