
Photo Courtesy: opindia.com/2025/05/15-civilians-killed-43-injured-in-artillery-firing-by-pakistan-army-in-poonch-tangdhar/
Today, on May 7, 2025, the border district of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir faced one of its darkest days in recent times. Heavy shelling from across the Line of Control (LoC) caused the deaths of at least 15 innocent civilians, including children and elderly people, and left more than 40 others injured. Many houses were damaged, and families were forced to flee their homes in fear.
This sudden and violent attack came as a response to India’s military operation called Operation Sindoor, which was launched earlier to strike terrorist camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. India had taken this step after a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, where 26 civilians were killed. Today’s shelling appears to be Pakistan’s retaliation to those strikes.
The firing in Poonch was intense and targeted residential areas. Shells hit villages without warning, and the loud blasts filled the air with fear and chaos. Ambulances and rescue teams rushed to help the injured, but many lives had already been lost. People were seen crying, holding injured loved ones, and searching for missing family members. Entire homes were reduced to rubble.
Local hospitals are now full, and doctors are working nonstop to treat the injured. The army and administration have set up emergency camps to provide shelter to those who lost their homes. Schools and public offices in the area have been closed for safety reasons.
Leaders across India have expressed deep sorrow over the incident. They have called the attack inhumane and cruel, especially because it targeted innocent civilians. There have also been strong messages sent to Pakistan, warning that such acts will not be tolerated.
The phrase “Poonch Bleeds” is not just words. It reflects the pain, anger, and deep sadness of the people who have lost everything in just a few minutes. It is a reminder of how badly peace is needed in border areas, where people live in fear of violence despite being far from politics and power.
As the nation mourns, prayers go out to the families affected. The hope remains that justice will be done, and peace will return to the lives of those who have suffered for too long.