Relief for Shelling Victims
The recent shelling incidents in Poonch, which led to tragic civilian casualties and targeted sacred sites including a gurudwara, temple, and mosque, have shaken the collective conscience of the nation. These events underscore not just the ruthlessness of the adversary but also the vulnerability of innocent citizens caught in the geopolitical crossfire. Yet, in this hour of sorrow and uncertainty, the J&K UT’s response—characterized by outreach, relief, and infrastructural reinforcement—offers a glimmer of reassurance to the border residents whose lives are often lived on the edge of volatility.
By announcing government jobs to the next of kin of those who lost their lives, the administration has extended more than just material support—it has made a symbolic gesture of solidarity. Such actions carry immense value in restoring dignity to grieving families and affirming that their pain is neither unseen nor unacknowledged. Ex-gratia payments and emergency relief measures are necessary, but it is the long-term vision—embodied in the commitment to proper rehabilitation—that sets this response apart from the perfunctory reactions of the past. Moreover, the prioritization of bunker construction under the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) scheme marks a decisive step toward proactive civilian defense. These bunkers—both individual and community—are not merely structures of brick and mortar; they represent safety, foresight, and respect for human life in regions perpetually exposed to hostility. For decades, residents along the Line of Control have lived with the constant threat of cross-border shelling. Building resilient infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a basic requirement that upholds their right to life and safety. Equally notable is the administration’s effort to preserve communal harmony in the face of deliberate provocations. The targeting of religious sites by Pakistani forces was not a mere act of aggression—it was an attempt to fracture the delicate social fabric of border communities. However, what unfolded in Poonch stands as a testament to the strength and unity of the people. The collective response from civil society, across religious and ethnic lines, was not one of hatred but of solidarity. It is this shared humanity that continues to be our strongest shield against the psychological warfare often waged alongside armed hostilities. The UT’s emphasis on upgrading medical facilities, strengthening civil defense systems, and ensuring uninterrupted essential services reflects a welcome move toward institutional preparedness. The directive to submit action taken reports and conduct comprehensive assessments of requirements indicates a desire for accountability and strategic planning. These are not just administrative processes; they are integral parts of building a governance framework that is responsive, resilient, and rooted in the lived realities of those it serves. This moment also demands reflection on the broader geopolitical narrative. While the administration must remain vigilant and decisive, the civilian population must not become collateral damage in the strategic calculus. Our national strength does not lie solely in the size of our arsenal but in how well we safeguard our citizens, uphold democratic values, and protect our shared cultural heritage. The resilience of the people of Poonch, their courage, and their refusal to succumb to fear is not just commendable—it is inspiring. Their silent strength reinforces the morale of our armed forces and embodies the spirit of unity that adversaries seek to disrupt. By turning their pain into a collective resolve, these communities remind us all of the enduring human spirit that stands tall even amid adversity.
As the government intensifies its civilian-centric approach, the rest of the country must also offer its support through policy, through voice, and through empathy. We are all stakeholders in the safety and dignity of our fellow citizens who live in the shadow of the border. Their resilience is our collective strength, and their protection must remain a national priority not just in times of crisis, but as a constant commitment.
