Says Civilians Were Targeted; Credits Defence Forces for Neutralizing All Drones; Injured Receiving Full Support
Diplomat Correspondent
Samba, (DD)Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today accused Pakistan of deliberately escalating tensions along the borders but asserted that such provocations will yield no benefit. He commended the Indian defence forces for effectively intercepting and neutralizing all hostile drones aimed at civilian areas.
Speaking to reporters during his visit to Samba, the Chief Minister said, “The most worrying aspect is that civilians were deliberately targeted. Pakistan used drones, but full credit goes to our defence forces—they managed to shoot down every single one. In Anantnag, an ammunition depot was also targeted, but the attempt was successfully thwarted.”
He emphasized that India was not the aggressor in the current escalation. “We did not start this. Innocent civilians were killed in Pahalgam, and a response was necessary. Pakistan is trying to provoke and escalate the situation, but these steps will not help them. They should choose dialogue and de-escalation over conflict.”
Referring to the impact of cross-border shelling in Poonch, Omar said, “Massive casualties have been reported. Property damage is extensive, and many people are injured. I visited the injured in the hospital—they are receiving appropriate treatment. One critically injured person was airlifted to Chandigarh this morning and has already undergone surgery.”
Addressing concerns about relief efforts, the Chief Minister added, “We are doing everything possible. Affected families are being provided with three meals a day, tea, medical aid, ambulance services—whatever support is needed, we are ensuring it.”
Earlier in the day, CM Omar Abdullah also visited Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu to check on the well-being of civilians injured in the recent cross-border shelling incidents.(DD)