- NEW DELHI — India on Saturday said that Pakistan was escalating tensions along
the Western border by moving troops into forward areas, suggesting an offensive
intent to intensify hostilities.
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- The Indian armed forces, while reaffirming their
commitment to non-escalation, asserted that any further provocation would be
met with proportionate and decisive action.
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- At a Press briefing on 'Operation Sindoor', Wing
Commander Vyomika Singh, joined by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Indian
Army Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, said, "The Pakistan military has been
observed moving its troops into forward areas, indicating an offensive intent
to further escalate the situation. Indian armed forces remain in a high state
of operational readiness. All hostile actions have been effectively countered
and responded to appropriately."
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- "Indian armed forces reiterate their commitment to
non-escalation, provided it is reciprocated by the Pakistan military," she
added.
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- Highlighting Pakistan's sustained aggression, Wing
Commander Singh said, "Along the Line of Control, Pakistan has attempted
multiple air intrusions using drones and conducted shelling using heavy calibre
RT guns targeting civilian infrastructure and killing some civilians. Heavy
exchange of artillery mortars and small arms fire in Kupwara, Baramulla,
Poonch, Rajouri, and Akhnoor sectors continued."
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- India also condemned Pakistan's strikes on civilian
infrastructure, particularly at the Srinagar, Avantipur, and Udhampur air
bases.
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- "Pakistan has continued its provocations, targeting
the civilian and military infrastructures at medicare centres and school
premises located at air bases," said Singh.
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- According to the Indian Air Force, Pakistan attempted
harassment attacks and air intrusions across more than 26 locations stretching
from Srinagar to Nalia.