RAWALPINDI: In a tragic incident, two Pakistani civilians were martyred and another sustained injuries as they came under fire from the Indian army across the Line of Control (LoC) in the Sattwal Sector, as confirmed by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the military.
According to the ISPR statement released on Saturday, the Indian Army displayed its usual inhumane approach by opening indiscriminate fire on a group of shepherds in the Sattwal Sector. This act of aggression resulted in the martyrdom of two civilians, while another individual was critically injured.
The military, in an indirect reference to a joint statement issued after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with US President Joe Biden, accused the Indian forces of pursuing a plan to take innocent lives in order to satisfy their false narratives and concocted allegations. The ISPR emphasized that Pakistan reserves the right to respond in a manner of its choosing to protect the lives of Kashmiris in the LoC belt, regardless of the strong protests launched by the Indian side.
Highlighting the importance of respecting fundamental human rights, particularly the inalienable right of Kashmiris to till their lands, the ISPR reminded the Indian side of its obligations. It called on India to acknowledge and uphold the fundamental human rights of the people of Kashmir.
National security expert Muhammad Ali shed light on India’s destabilising approach in the region, pointing out four different aspects of its behaviour. He highlighted India’s perception of receiving significant attention from world powers and its attempts to point allegations towards Pakistan regarding terrorism, while in reality, it is the Kashmiris who are suffering the most. Ali further criticized India for targeting innocent civilians along with freedom fighters and emphasized the preparedness of the Pakistan Army and the Kashmiris to respond firmly to any attacks launched by India at the LoC.
The expert also commented on the joint statement issued by The White House following Modi’s meeting with Biden, suggesting a link between the timing of the incident and India’s attempt to showcase the backing of the Joe Biden administration.
In the face of such unprovoked aggression, Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to protect the lives and rights of Kashmiris. The nation’s armed forces and the Kashmiri people are prepared to give a resolute response to any aggression initiated by India.
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The incident of unprovoked cross-LoC firing by the Indian Army, resulting in the loss of innocent lives, has once again highlighted the need for international attention to the Kashmir issue. It is imperative for the international community to recognize and address the plight of Kashmiris, ensuring the respect of their human rights and the peaceful resolution of the long-standing dispute. Pakistan, with its unwavering support for the Kashmir cause, stands firm in its commitment to protecting the lives and rights of Kashmiris and will respond to any aggression in a manner that safeguards their interests and brings justice to the region.