Jawan martyred as Pak violates ceasefire on Eid

​Nowshera: In the latest instance of ceasefire violation by Pakistan, Army jawan Bikas Gurung lost his life in Nowshera on Saturday. Rifleman Gurung was killed as Pakistani troopers targeted a patrol party along the Line of Control in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan Army initiated unprovoked and indiscriminate firing of mortars on routine Indian Army patrol, 700 metres inside Indian territory in Nowshera sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in the morning.

Gurung was grievously injured in the firing and succumbed to injuries. The 21-year-old soldier belonged to Khunka Khuki village of Manipur and is survived by his mother. The latest instance of ceasefire violation comes after four BSF personnel, including an assistant commandant-rank officer, were killed in firing by Pakistani Rangers along the International Border in Samba district on June 13. No exchange of sweets at Wagah border this Eid

Owing to the continuous ceasefire violations by Pakistan, the Border Security Force (BSF) troops and Pakistani Rangers did not exchange sweets at the Attari Wagah border on Eid this year.

In May, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had announced suspension of operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan. It was clarified that operations would resume in case the security forces came under attack. No decision yet on ceasefire

As the deadline ends on Saturday, the government is yet to decide whether the ceasefire will be extended. Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Ahir said the decision on whether or not to extend the Ramzan ceasefire has not been taken yet.

“People in Kashmir welcomed the Central government’s decision to suspend operations. We got a good response after the suspension of operations in Jammu and Kashmir (during Ramzan). Whatever be the next step, it will be based on their (Kashmiris) sentiments/betterment,” he said.