In a tragic escalation of hostilities between India and Pakistan, Additional District Development Commissioner of Rajouri, Raj Kumar Thappa, was killed early Saturday morning when an artillery shell fired from across the border struck his residence in Rajouri town. Two of his staff members sustained critical injuries in the incident.

The shelling is part of a broader pattern of intensified cross-border attacks following India's Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled territories in retaliation for the April 22 massacre in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. Pakistan has responded with artillery and drone attacks on multiple Indian locations, including civilian areas.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed profound grief over Thappa's death, noting that the officer had been actively engaged in administrative duties up until the previous day. "We have lost a dedicated officer of the J&K Administration Services," Abdullah stated, highlighting Thappa's commitment to public service.

The recent shelling has resulted in multiple civilian casualties across the region. In addition to Thappa's death, at least four other individuals have been reported killed in separate incidents of shelling in Rajouri, Poonch, and Uri districts . The Indian Army has reported that Pakistani forces targeted 26 locations across northern and southern border areas using suspected armed drones.

The Indian government has condemned the attacks, emphasizing the targeting of civilian areas and the loss of innocent lives. In response, Indian forces have conducted precision strikes on Pakistani military installations and terrorist camps, asserting that their actions are measured and aimed at neutralizing threats without escalating the conflict.

The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The G7 nations have called for maximum restraint and urged both countries to engage in direct dialogue to prevent further escalation.

As the situation remains volatile, authorities have advised residents in border areas to remain indoors and adhere to safety protocols. The Indian Armed Forces continue to maintain a high state of alert, actively monitoring and responding to threats to ensure the safety and security of the nation.