Jammu/Poonch, October 11
After a brief lull, Pakistan today violated ceasefire twice along the International Border (IB) and the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and Jammu districts, drawing strong retaliation from India.

“Around 1.15 pm today, Pakistani troops opened automatic weapons fire and also rained mortars on six Indian posts in Shahpur and Kerni sub-sectors along the LoC in Poonch,” said an intelligence source. The Army responded in equal measure, he added. The source said Pakistani troops opened unprovoked small arms fire on Indian posts in Shahpur, Kerni, Qasba and Kalsa areas along the LoC. “They also fired automatic weapons and mortars. The Indian troops guarding the borderline also responded in equal measure,” he said.

Heavy exchange of fire between the two sides was still on when reports last poured in. There has been no casualty or injury to the Indian troops so far. An Army officer said: “Pakistani troops are firing mortars and we are giving them a befitting response.”

A Shahpur resident said the exchange of fire was on till late evening. “Pakistani troops are targeting Indian posts on mother ridge. Civilian areas have not been targeted yet, but villagers are scared,” he said.

In Arnia, the Rangers pounded three BSF posts.

"Flat trajectory weaponry fire came at 2010 hours targeting our three border outposts in Arnia sector" said a BSF spokesman. He said BSF troops retaliated and intermittent fire of small arms continued from both the sides till late in the night.