India/Pakistan: Deadly clashes in Kashmir on June 3

Event

Cross-border clashes between Indian and Pakistani security forces broke out in Kashmir on Sunday, June 3. According to local sources, two Indian soldiers and two Pakistani civilians were killed; 24 Pakistani civilians and ten Indian civilians were also reportedly wounded. The clashes reportedly took place in Pargwal, Kana Chak, Pull Bajwaan, Ghanglora, Kachi Maand, Sohnti Dera, Deeyawara, Pandoliyaan, Deewanpur, and Kakraan. Tensions remain high in the region; further clashes between Pakistani and Indian forces, as well as between Indian forces and separatist militants, are possible in the area in the coming days and weeks.

Context

A ceasefire has been in place in the region since 2003. However, ceasefire violations are often reported, sometimes resulting in the deaths of soldiers and civilians on both sides of the border. New Delhi and Islamabad both regularly accuse each other of initiating cross-border clashes.

Tensions were particularly high in the region in February and March 2018, following an attack on an Indian army camp in which six soldiers died. Sporadic cross-border shelling and border skirmishes were reported throughout February and March. Since the beginning of May, several incidents resulting in casualties have occurred. On May 18, one member of the Indian Border Security Force was killed and two civilians were injured in an exchange of gunfire at the Line of Control (LoC) near the Indian towns of Arnia and Ranbir Singh Pora (Jammu and Kashmir state).

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. As a reminder, some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to parts of Kashmir, notably areas along the Line of Control (border), due to the significant risk of violence.