SRINAGAR: After discussions between the Director Generals of Military Operations of India and Pakistan, the two sides have to cease firing along the Line of Control and all other sectors with effect from midnight of February 24 to 25.
The discussion between the two armies took place at a time when a large number of ceasefire violations were taking place along the LoC and violence levels were going up especially for the villagers living along the LoC on both sides.
“Both sides agreed for strict observance of all agreements, understandings and cease firing along the Line of Control and all other sectors with effect from midnight of February 24 to 25,” a joint statement issued by the Defence Ministry said.
In the talks, the two armies reviewed the situation along the Line of Control and all other sectors “in a free, frank and cordial atmosphere”.
Both sides held discussions over the established mechanism of hotline contact.
According to the statement, the two DGsMO agreed to address each other’s core issues and concerns which have the propensity to disturb the peace and lead to violence in the interest of achieving mutually beneficial and sustainable peace along the borders.
During the discussions, both sides reiterated that existing mechanisms of hotline contact and border flag meetings will be utilised to resolve any unforeseen situation or misunderstanding.
The Indian Army has also made it clear that there will be no let-up in its counter-militant or counter-infiltration operations.
The statement is being taken positively in Jammu and Kashmir. “We welcome it and hope that the statement will be followed in letter and spirit,” NC spokesman in Srinagar said. “JKNC has been a strong supporter of the ceasefire along the LoC. This will allow people living along the LoC and IB to go about their normal lives with minimal disruption and risk.”
Welcoming the decision, Jammu Muslim Front Chairman, Shuja Zaffar termed the silencing of guns on the border “a tribute to humanity”.
