All Eyes on Poonch Attack: A Humanitarian Crisis Amid Rising Tensions

The phrase “All Eyes on Poonch Attack” has emerged as a powerful rallying cry across social media platforms, reflecting the growing national and international concern over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir. Following India’s Operation Sindoor—a counter-terror operation launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack—the retaliatory shelling by Pakistan has brought immense suffering to the civilian population of Poonch.

Operation Sindoor: The Trigger

On April 22, 2025, a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam claimed the lives of 26 Indian civilians, prompting the Indian military to launch Operation Sindoor. The operation targeted terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), aiming to dismantle infrastructures associated with groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.

While India described the operation as non-escalatory and targeted only at terror bases, the aftermath saw a significant escalation in cross-border hostilities, particularly affecting civilian zones in Poonch.

Pakistan’s Retaliation: Civilian Areas Targeted

In response to Operation Sindoor, Pakistan initiated heavy artillery shelling across the Line of Control (LoC). This retaliation did not spare civilian spaces. The district of Poonch was one of the worst affected, with:

• 12 civilians killed, including women and children.
• Places of worship including a Gurudwara, mosque, and Geeta Bhawan damaged.
• Schools, markets, and homes destroyed, causing mass displacement.

These actions have drawn widespread condemnation, especially for targeting sacred spaces and endangering innocent lives.

Poonch Gurudwara Attack: A Community in Mourning

One of the most tragic incidents occurred at the Central Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Poonch. During the shelling:

• A raagi (hymn singer) and a granthi were among the fatalities.
• The outer wall of the Gurudwara was demolished.
• Several local Sikh shopkeepers and bystanders were killed or injured.

This has sparked outrage among Sikh leaders, political figures, and humanitarian advocates who denounced the targeting of religious minorities and demanded justice and international intervention.

Destruction of Civil Infrastructure

Beyond religious sites, the attack resulted in:

• Destruction of residential homes, forcing multiple families to flee to safer areas.
• Damage to schools, disrupting education for hundreds of children.
• Shelling of bazaars, leading to economic loss and fear among local businesses.

This comprehensive targeting of non-military areas has highlighted the indiscriminate nature of the assault, putting Pakistan’s tactics under global scrutiny.

Security Situation and Response

Following the shelling, the Indian Army responded with strikes on Pakistani military posts across the LoC. However, fears of a broader military escalation continue to grow, with analysts urging for de-escalation and diplomatic dialogue to prevent further civilian harm.

The spotlight remains on Poonch, as security forces work to restore order and prevent further casualties, while relief efforts are underway to assist displaced and injured residents.

Geography and Strategic Importance of Poonch

Location and Terrain

Poonch district, situated in the Jammu division of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, spans an area of 1,674 sq. km. It is bordered by the Line of Control (LoC) on three sides, making it highly vulnerable to cross-border conflicts.

The district is characterised by mountainous terrain, particularly the Pir Panjal range, which separates it from the Kashmir Valley.

Historical Background of Poonch

Ancient Roots

The name Poonch is believed to have been derived from Maharishi Pulastya, a sage linked to Hindu mythology. Historically known as Dravabhisar, the region dates back to Alexander’s invasion in 326 BCE.

Sikh and Dogra Rule

In the 19th century, Poonch became part of the Sikh Empire and later a jagir under the Dogra rulers. Post-independence, the 1947-48 Indo-Pak war resulted in the division of Poonch, with part of it falling under Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir.

Administrative Divisions

Poonch comprises six tehsils:

• Haveli
• Mandi
• Mendhar
• Surankote
• Mankote
• Balakote

These are further subdivided into eleven administrative blocks covering 179 villages.

Demographics and Cultural Fabric

Religious Diversity

Poonch has a cosmopolitan population with a strong mix of religious communities:

• Islam – 44%
• Sikhism – 33%
• Hinduism – 21%

This blend has cultivated a rich culture of religious harmony and communal coexistence, which is now under threat due to recent violence.

Languages and Traditions

Main languages spoken include Pahari, Gojri, Kashmiri, Dogri, Urdu, and Hindi. The region is known for its folk music, cultural festivals, and interfaith traditions.