Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar/Jammu, (DD) Amid intensifying cross-border shelling that has claimed civilian lives and forced mass displacement in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday announced an ex-gratia relief of Rs 10 lakh for the next of kin of those killed in the recent hostilities.
In a statement posted on the official handle of the Chief Minister’s Office, Omar expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives, stating: “Deeply pained by the loss of innocent lives due to recent shelling from Pakistan. My government is taking every possible measure to minimise the hardship of our people.”
The announcement follows a spate of deadly shelling incidents since 7 May, in which at least 15 civilians, including women and children, lost their lives in border villages of Poonch, Rajouri, and Uri. More than 50 civilians have been injured, while critical infrastructure — including schools, religious sites, and homes — has been severely damaged.
Thousands of residents have fled their homes in terror, seeking shelter in makeshift relief camps established by the district administrations. Local accounts describe the shelling as indiscriminate and deliberate, targeting non-combatant zones and triggering psychological trauma, especially among children.
The Chief Minister’s relief package aims to provide immediate financial support to the bereaved families while the administration continues to coordinate rescue, medical, and rehabilitation efforts.
With tensions along the Line of Control remaining high, the government has also ramped up diplomatic engagement to address what it calls a flagrant violation of international humanitarian norms by Pakistan (DD)