"Disturbed" Pak targeting civilians in border areas: J-K Minister

Rajouri (Jammu and Kashmir), [India], Oct. 16 (ANI): Condemning the ceasefire violation in Naushera sector of Jammu and Kashmir, Minister for Animal Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries Abdul Ghani Kohli today said that Pakistan, which has become disturbed after the September 29 surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC), has been targeting civilians in the border areas. Kohli said that the cross-border firing has disrupted normal life of the local residents here, adding the local administration has made all arrangements for their safety. "After surgical strikes by the Indian Army in Pakistan, Pakistan has become disturbed. So, Pakistan is now targeting civilians in the border areas. There was firing at 4 am today and the people are being unnecessarily harassed as it is the harvesting season and they are busy in the fields etc. However, our Indian Army is giving a befitting reply," he told ANI. Kohli further said that there have been no civilian casualties so far, but added that the firing is still on. Meanwhile, a Sarpanch here said that Pakistan should learn a lesson from the surgical strikes, adding they should not create situations where India is compelled to act in retaliation. "If our jawans die, we just cannot maintain silence," he added. The Pakistan Army earlier this morning resorted to unprovoked firing at Indian positions near the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district. No casualties have been reported from the Indian side so far. Reportedly, a gun battle is underway along with intermittent firing from Pakistan's side. The unprovoked firing comes after a string of ceasefire violations last week by Pakistan. Ever since the surgical strikes were conducted by the Indian Army on September 29, Pakistan has stepped up cross-border firing and has violated the ceasefire at least 20 times till date. (ANI)