As the situation escalates in Jammu and Kashmir, ordinary citizens in India are grappling with fears of an impending conflict with Pakistan. The ongoing artillery bombardment, which began earlier this week, has instilled a deep sense of anxiety not only in the borders of Kashmir but across extensive regions of India that could potentially be targeted by advanced Pakistani weaponry.
Retiree Narinder Singh, residing in the Poonch district—merely six miles from the contested line with Pakistan—reportedly witnessed a shocking surge in violence, with the loss of 13 lives since the initiation of India's retaliatory Operation Sindoor, aimed at addressing the casualties from a recent terrorist attack on April 22. Singh expressed disbelief at the severity of the recent shellings, reminding that such intense bombardments had not been experienced in the area since the 1971 war.
With local markets shuttered and public spaces eerily quiet, residents are increasingly taking refuge in safer locations amidst the chaos. The shelling demonstrates a dramatic escalation in hostilities, causing widespread panic and forcing many to remain indoors. According to Singh, only a few essential shops are open, contributing to the pervasive atmosphere of fear as reports indicate that the intensity of the shelling is expected to rise even further in the days to come.
As both uncertainty and tension mount, the thoughts of ordinary citizens reflect a grim reality—the potential for this conflict to infringe upon their daily lives looms larger than ever.
