The Persistent Conflict Along the LoC
The Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir, has long been a flashpoint for military tensions. Despite a ceasefire agreement reached in 2021, Pakistan’s military has repeatedly violated the terms, leading to skirmishes and loss of life on both sides. These incursions, often accompanied by gunfire and militant infiltration attempts, have become a recurring security challenge for India.
In yet another violation of the ceasefire agreement, Pakistan Army troops crossed the LoC in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on April 1, 2025. The incursion, which involved unprovoked firing and an explosion, came just days before Home Minister Amit Shah’s scheduled visit to the region. The Indian Army responded swiftly, neutralizing the threat while reaffirming its commitment to border security.
The Latest Incursion: What Happened?
The Pakistan Army’s intrusion occurred at 1:10 PM in the Nangi Tikti area of the Krishna Ghati sector. This location is not typically used for infiltration attempts, making the violation a calculated provocation.
- Reports indicate that during the incursion, a mine blast injured at least five Pakistani soldiers.
- Indian troops from the Nangi Tekri Battalion retaliated forcefully, leading to the death of four to five enemy soldiers, according to India Today.
- The Indian Army confirmed that no casualties or damage were sustained on its side.
Jammu-based Defence PRO Lt. Col. Suneel Bartwal stated, “On April 1, 2025, a mine blast occurred in Krishna Ghati Sector due to Pakistan Army intrusion across the LoC. This was followed by unprovoked firing and ceasefire violations by Pakistan Army. Our troops responded effectively in a controlled and calibrated manner. The situation is under control and being closely monitored.”
The Indian Army reiterated the importance of upholding the 2021 ceasefire agreement, urging Pakistan to respect the terms laid out during military talks.
Rising Border Violations and Infiltration Attempts
Despite the 2021 ceasefire agreement, cross-border firing incidents and infiltration attempts have surged in recent months. Army sources reported that multiple failed intrusion attempts have taken place in the Krishna Ghati sector, all of which were swiftly countered by Indian forces.
These actions appear to be part of a broader strategy by Pakistan to escalate tensions before major political events in India, as seen with past incursions occurring ahead of high-profile visits or elections.
Past Violations: A Pattern of Intrusions
This is not the first time Pakistan has attempted to violate the LoC. A similar incident occurred in July 2024 when Pakistan’s Border Action Team (BAT), consisting of military personnel and militants, launched an attack on an Indian Army post north of Kupwara.
- Using poor weather and low visibility as cover, two to three Pakistani soldiers crossed the LoC and targeted an Indian Army post with grenades and gunfire.
- The attack led to the death of one Indian soldier and injuries to four others, including a Major.
- The Indian Army responded decisively, eliminating a Pakistani intruder who was reportedly working as a guide for enemy forces.
According to military officials, such incursions are often part of Pakistan’s larger strategy to facilitate militant infiltration under the cover of army-led operations.
Diplomatic Efforts to De-escalate Tensions
Following several incidents of cross-border firing and an IED attack, India and Pakistan held a brigade-commander-level flag meeting at the Chakkan-Da-Bagh crossing point in Poonch earlier this year.
- Both sides discussed the need to maintain peace along the LoC and agreed to honor the ceasefire in the larger interest of regional stability.
- However, repeated violations from Pakistan raise questions about its commitment to these agreements.
While diplomatic engagements continue, the ground reality suggests that trust between the two nations remains fragile.
The Way Forward: Strengthening Border Security and Diplomatic Efforts
The persistence of LoC violations underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to addressing border security challenges:
- Enhanced Surveillance and Intelligence Gathering – India must continue using advanced surveillance technology, including drones and thermal imaging, to detect and deter infiltrators.
- Stronger Military Retaliation – A zero-tolerance policy toward ceasefire violations should be maintained, ensuring that every intrusion is met with decisive military action.
- Diplomatic Pressure on Pakistan – India must continue engaging international allies to hold Pakistan accountable for repeated violations. Increased diplomatic pressure could push Pakistan to adhere to the ceasefire agreement.
- Improved Border Infrastructure – Strengthening border defenses, including better fencing, more outposts, and enhanced patrolling, will make infiltration more difficult.
Achieving Lasting Peace
The LoC remains one of the most volatile borders in the world. Despite ceasefire agreements, Pakistan’s repeated violations suggest a lack of intent to foster lasting peace. While India has demonstrated restraint and adherence to diplomatic protocols, its military remains prepared to counter any threat decisively.
For long-term peace, Pakistan must take concrete steps to curb infiltration and honor its commitments under bilateral agreements. Until then, India’s priority remains the security of its borders and the safety of its citizens.
(With inputs from agencies)
