"Sharp Decline in Cross-Border Firing Incidents at LoC and IB: Jitendra Singh"

Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlights the decline in cross-border firing incidents but emphasizes the need to remain vigilant against Pakistan.

In Jammu, on October 27, Union Minister Jitendra Singh revealed that although there has been a significant reduction in cross-border firing incidents at the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB), recent isolated events indicate that India cannot afford to lower its guard against Pakistan. His comments came in response to sporadic firing episodes and continuous infiltration attempts across the LoC.

The minister's statement comes following an incident where a BSF jawan and a woman were injured, and several houses were damaged due to cross-border shelling and firing by Pakistan Rangers. This occurrence marked the first major ceasefire violation since 2021 in Jammu's Arnia region. The unprovoked assault from Pakistan reportedly continued until 3 am on Friday, which was met with suitable retaliation from the Border Security Force (BSF).

Decreased Violence Post Article 370 Revocation

Singh also stated that violence levels have significantly decreased over the past nine years in Jammu and Kashmir. This drop is particularly evident during the four-year period since Article 370 was revoked back in August 2019. He stressed on this point while speaking to reporters in Samba.

A Shift In India’s Attitude Under PM Modi’s Leadership

According to Singh, India's approach towards such matters has undergone a change since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office back in 2014. He highlighted notable actions like surgical strikes conducted by Indian Army in September 2016 followed by Balakote airstrikes carried out by IAF in February 2019 as examples of this shift. "It has sent a clear signal that terrorist attacks sponsored from across the border will be sternly dealt with," he concluded.

In conclusion, despite witnessing a sharp decline in cross-border firing incidents at the Line of Control and the International Border, recent sporadic firing incidents serve as a stark reminder that India must remain vigilant against potential threats from Pakistan. The country's approach towards such issues has evolved under PM Modi's leadership, with decisive actions like surgical strikes and airstrikes demonstrating India's commitment to sternly deal with cross-border terrorism.