7 Pakistani Soldiers Killed In "Retaliatory Action" Along LoC, Says Army

New Delhi: Seven Pakistani soldiers were killed in the army's "retaliatory action" at Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch this morning, in an escalation of hostilities along the Line of Control. At least four of the deaths were confirmed by the Pakistani government in a tweet that claimed that its soldiers tasked with maintenance duties died in the mortar attack.

The army's action follows the killing of an Indian soldier in Pakistani firing at Rajouri on Saturday. "The army has carried out retaliation against Pakistani troops across Jaglote area along the LoC in Mendhar sector of Poonch district", a senior Army officer was quoted as telling the news agency PTI.

This morning, Army Chief Bipin Rawat said at a function to mark Army Day, "If we are forced, then we may resort to 'other action' by stepping up military offensive."

General Rawat said the Pakistan army had been continuously trying to help terrorists sneak into India along the Line of Control. "We are using our might to teach them a lesson. We will keep effectively retaliating to any provocative action by Pakistan," he said.

"We will not let anti-India activities succeed at any cost," the army chief asserted.

Even today, at least five Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists tried to enter India at Uri before being killed by security forces. The terrorists reportedly crossed the Jhelum river by boat when they were spotted.

Defence spokesperson Colonel Rajesh Kalia said the attackers were trying to enter India at a point about 108 km from Srinagar.

Colonel Kalia said the forces had information about the plan. "As soon as they were spotted, a joint operation was launched by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, army and paramilitary forces leading to a fierce gun battle that killed five terrorists," he said.

Arms and ammunition found by the forces suggested that the terrorists had planned a big suicide attack, police said. The forces have heightened security in the state ahead of Republic Day celebrations.

The army's quick retaliation, say sources, indicate a new, proactive approach in the face of incessant Pakistani provocation.

Last month, five army commandos of the "Ghatak" battalion crossed the Line of Control in Poonch and killed four Pakistani soldiers, to avenge the killing of four Indian soldiers including a Major by a Border Action Team of the Pakistan Army.