Amid rising military tensions between India and Pakistan, a fresh provocation occurred early Saturday as Pakistan targeted the Aap Shambhu Temple near the main gate in Jammu’s Roop Nagar area, triggering alarm and widespread condemnation.
Officials confirmed that no casualties were reported as the area was largely vacant due to an early morning siren alert. Projectile debris was found near the temple gate, and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and Jammu Police swiftly cordoned off the site.
“It is the main gate of Shambhu temple where people usually come to pray early morning. Luckily, the siren was on, so there were fewer people. Pakistan will face a fitting reply,” said a local eyewitness.
SDRF officer Rashpal Singh verified that no loss of life occurred, and that the projectile fell in the open, minimising damage.
India Condemns Targeting of Civilian Infrastructure
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), reacting strongly, reiterated its condemnation of Pakistan’s deliberate targeting of civilian zones, including places of worship and schools.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the attacks on temples, gurdwaras, and churches along the LoC as “a new low even for Pakistan.”
Retaliatory Strikes and Escalation
In a decisive counter-operation, India launched pre-dawn retaliatory strikes on four airbases inside Pakistan, just hours after Pakistan shelled 26 Indian locations.
These strikes come amid reports of intermittent firing along the LoC, with the Indian Armed Forces maintaining heightened alert.
The Ministry of Defence reported the sighting of drones at 26 locations, including Baramulla, Srinagar, Jammu, Pathankot, Fazilka, Bhuj, and more.
One such armed drone struck a civilian home in Ferozpur, injuring members of a local family. Security forces sanitised the area, and medical aid was promptly delivered.
“All aerial threats are being tracked and neutralised using counter-drone systems. Citizens, especially those near border areas, are advised to remain indoors and strictly follow safety protocols,” said the Defence Ministry.
Punjab On Edge
Earlier on Saturday, projectile debris was also found in a field in Mughlani Kot Village, Amritsar. The incident, which occurred around 5 am, caused burnt patches in the field but did not result in injuries.
Local leaders and residents across Punjab and Jammu expressed solidarity with the Armed Forces, calling for firm retaliation and continued vigilance.