Residents Near India-Pakistan Border Express Ongoing Fear Amidst Recent Tensions

Residents living near the India-Pakistan border are grappling with ongoing fears following a recent escalation of military tensions. Despite a ceasefire agreement, many villagers express deep distrust towards Pakistan, fearing a return to violence. The recent conflict resulted in numerous casualties and forced many to evacuate their homes. As conditions slowly normalize, the psychological impact of the violence remains evident, with villagers sharing their harrowing experiences and concerns for the future. This article delves into the sentiments of those affected and the visible scars left by the conflict.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2025, 11:40 IST

Lingering Fear Among Border Villagers

Residents living in villages along the India-Pakistan border continue to experience a profound sense of insecurity, even as conditions gradually return to normal following eight days of intense conflict known as 'Operation Sindoor.' Villagers express concerns that the agreement to cease military actions between the two neighboring nations may be violated again. Many have voiced their distrust, stating, 'We do not trust Pakistan.'

Casualties and Displacement

The recent shelling, missile strikes, and drone attacks in the Jammu region resulted in the deaths of 27 individuals and left over 70 injured, forcing thousands to evacuate areas near the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border (IB). Many sought refuge in government relief camps to ensure their families' safety. Suram Chand, an 80-year-old who returned home to Arnia with six family members, shared, 'We haven't been able to sleep for several nights. The fear is constant. We left on May 8 and returned on May 14, but we still can't sleep well because we cannot trust Pakistan.'

Concerns About Future Violence

Echoing similar sentiments, Sarwan Chaudhary, the headman of Gulabgarh in the RS Pura sector, remarked, 'The situation appears peaceful at the moment, but the sense of security is absent. Trust in Pakistan is non-existent. There is a constant threat of the agreement to cease military actions breaking down. All we can do is pray for lasting peace.'

Impact of Recent Attacks

The city of Arnia, along with RS Pura, Khour, and nearby settlements, suffered greatly from Pakistani shelling, drone strikes, and gunfire between May 8 and 10. Munshi Ram, a resident of Korotana village who returned from a relative's home in Jammu, noted that while he has witnessed many wars, this was the first time he saw such extensive use of drones and artillery. He stated, 'Thanks to the vigilance of our army, the damage was minimized.'

Visible Signs of Conflict

Despite a ceasefire agreement between the two nations, fear remains palpable among those living near the border, as they perceive Pakistan as a rogue state. The scars of armed conflict are still evident in the villages—damaged homes, bullet holes in walls, shattered windows, blood stains, and dead or injured livestock serve as stark reminders of the recent violence. Kanta Devi, 62, praised the army's counteraction, saying, 'Our army gave Pakistan a fitting reply.'

Government's Role in Ceasefire

The government made the right decision by reaching an agreement to halt military actions. Just five kilometers from the border, Arnia had turned into a deserted town during the shelling last week, with only a handful of police officers and villagers remaining to care for livestock and homes.