India: Artillery exchanges reported across Jammu and Kashmir line of control November 13

Event

At least seven people, including three civilians, were killed on Friday, November 13, as Indian military forces exchanged artillery and small arms fire with Pakistani forces across the Jammu and Kashmir line of control in several areas of the disputed frontier. The most significant clashes reportedly occurred in the Dawar, Keran, Uri, and Naugam areas of the territory on Friday afternoon. Most of the fatalities, including a Border Security Force (BSF) officer and three civilians, were reported to have occurred as a result of mortar fire in the Uri area around 12:00 (local time). At least five other civilians are also reported to have been injured in later shelling around Gurez area of the northern Bandipora district, whilst a further three were wounded in clashes in the Sawjian area of Poonch. Indian military sources later reported that their forces had returned fire following shelling by Pakistani forces but it is currently unclear what sparked the clashes. Both sides routinely blame the other for initiating cross-border exchanges.

Further exchanges of artillery and small arms fire are likely along the Jammu and Kashmir line of control in the medium term. 

Advice

Those in the Jammu and Kashmir territory are advised to monitor developments, avoid areas with active clashes or security operations, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.

Some foreign governments advise their citizens against travel to parts of Kashmir, notably including areas along the line of control, due to the significant risk of violence.