Context:
Brigade Commander level flag meeting at Chakkan Da Bagh, Poonch. Focus of discussion was on latest skirmishes and how to minimise tensions. No joint statement issued, details remain undisclosed.
LoC Tensions: Cross border Firing and Skirmishes
- Incidents So Far
- The Indian Army has accused the Pakistani Army of small arms firing on an Indian post on February 16.
- Within 24 hours of the meeting, Poonch district reported two fresh blasts and firing. Security officials have kept the reason behind the explosion unclear.
- The Pakistani newspaper Dawn reported that two Pakistani soldiers were injured as a result of an alleged ceasefire violation by Indian troops in Deva and Bagsar sectors.
- Ceasefire Commitments and Peace Efforts
- The meeting was aimed at strengthening the 2003 & 2020 ceasefire agreements.
- J&K CM Omar Abdullah welcomed the initiative and reiterated the need for de escalation.
Background
- While 2020 saw a joint ceasefire in place since then between India and Pakistan, the months passed have been replete with both sides accusing one another of ceasefire violations.
- Even allegations of unprovocative firing deter high measures to manage tensions.
The India Pakistan flag meeting may signify an attempt to curb rising tensions on the LoC, but continued violations in the ceasefire underscore the fragile nature of peace in the region.
