Heavy shelling from Pakistan in Kathua region along international borders, BSF DG rushes to Jammu

BSF Director General DK Pathak is rushing to border areas along the International Border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of heavy shelling from Pakistan which on Monday left a trooper dead and caused damage to civilian infrastructure.

Officials said Pathak also briefed Home Minister Rajnath Singh in the evening about the incidents of heavy mortar shelling across the IB. They said the Border Security Force Chief will visit the forward areas in Samba-Kathua areas on Tuesday even as he is expected to review defence preparedness along the IB which has been continuously witnessing incidents of ceasefire violations since December 31.

Earlier on Monday, the Home Minister chaired a meeting of the top security brass during which the situation at the border, including damage to civilian assets, was reviewed. Officials said Singh asked the security agencies, especially BSF, to remain alert and ensure that apart from giving a befitting reply to Pakistan Rangers, the force should ensure the security of its personnel and strive for zero casualty.

They said the Home Minister also asked these agencies to be vigilant in the wake of of Pakistan's statements that they would now "communicate (with India) in the language they understand". The BSF DG, during his visit, will also pay his respect to the mortal remains of trooper Davinder Kumar who was martyred on Monday after a Pakistani mortar splinter hit him inside his bunker in Samba sector.

Four security personnel and a woman have been killed in the Pakistan shelling and firing during the last one week, officials had said, adding, five Pakistani Rangers and a girl were killed in retaliatory firing from the Indian side.