Delhi, 8 May (H.S.): India has launched a counter-offensive following a significant assault by Pakistan on Jammu and Kashmir, which occurred after an earlier foiled attempt to attack 15 Indian cities. The Indian Armed Forces swiftly shot down three Pakistani fighter jets—two JF-17s and one F-16—escalating the aerial conflict.

The situation intensified with heavy shelling across the Line of Control and International Border, with major military zones like RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Hiranagar coming under attack. Jammu faced direct air strikes, prompting the activation of a full air defense grid. Indian Air Defence Units intercepted eight fired missiles mid-air, while loud explosions and sirens created chaos in Jammu, resulting in partial communication breakdowns.

Meanwhile, Pathankot, a critical military junction, experienced heavy artillery fire, and surrounding areas, including Punjab’s Chandigarh and parts of Rajasthan, were plunged into darkness as a precaution against further attacks. Widespread blackouts have been declared across these border-facing regions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar