Amid the turmoil, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah promptly left Srinagar early Friday morning and headed to Jammu to assess the situation firsthand. His visit comes as part of a larger government effort to reassure citizens and take stock of the security and emergency measures in place. This urgent development is dominating national media and is among the Top 10 News today.
Indian Forces Neutralize Multiple Drone Attacks(Pakistan drone attacks foiled)
In breaking news, Indian military officials confirmed that over a dozen drones and low-range missiles were launched from across the border late Thursday night. These aerial threats were directed at military zones in Jammu, Pathankot, and Samba. The Indian Air Defence System, on high alert, responded immediately and successfully intercepted every one of the hostile aerial devices.
The Defence Ministry issued a statement assuring the public that “India remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its people.” These events mark one of the most serious security threats in recent months and have led to increased deployment of defense forces across Jammu and Kashmir.
Educational Institutions Closed Amid Escalating Tensions
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the Jammu and Kashmir Education Department ordered the immediate closure of all educational institutions including schools, colleges, and universities in high-risk districts. The shutdown, effective from Thursday, will continue until at least Monday.
Education Minister Sakina Itoo stated, “The safety of students and staff is our priority. A further decision will be made depending on how the situation unfolds.”
CM Omar Abdullah on the Ground in Jammu
On Friday morning, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Driving to Jammu now to take stock of the situation after last night’s failed Pakistani drone attack directed at Jammu city & other parts of the division.”
His decision to be physically present in Jammu underscores the urgency of the situation. His visit aims to oversee relief efforts, coordinate with security forces, and prepare contingency plans should hostilities escalate.
Civilian Casualties and Blackouts Add to the Crisis
Unfortunately, the attack has not been without casualties. In Baramulla, Pakistani mortar shelling killed one civilian and injured another. The woman, identified as Nargis Begum, was hit while traveling in a vehicle near Mohura. Her death highlights the tragic cost of cross-border aggression on innocent civilians.
To prevent further chaos, authorities imposed complete blackouts across cities like Jammu and Srinagar during the drone alerts. Electricity was cut to avoid potential targeting of lit-up areas and to enable better tracking of aerial threats. Power is now being gradually restored in affected areas.