The government today said that an Indian pilot was "missing in action" after an Indian Air Force aircraft shot down a Pakistani jet targeting military installations. Later, the Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan was summoned this afternoon by the Ministry of External Affairs to lodge a strong protest at the "unprovoked act of aggression by Pakistan against India earlier today". The government has also strongly objected to Pakistan's "vulgar display of an injured personnel of the Indian Air Force" in violation of all norms of the Geneva Convention.
This was after Pakistan claimed in a statement that strikes across Line of Control are "from within Pakistani airspace." The allegations reflect the escalation of hostilities a day after the Indian fighter jets went within Pakistan and destroyed a terror training camp.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is meeting with top officials including Advisor Ajit Doval, the Defence and Foreign Secretaries and intelligence officials. A Pakistani F-16 aircraft crashed on its own territory, in the Lam Valley area along the Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri sectors.
Amid increasing tension, the entire airspace north of Delhi has been vacated, official sources said, according to news agency Press Trust of India.
Earlier in the day, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj, in a visit to China, said India wants to avoid any "further escalation of the situation" and will "continue to act with responsibility and restraint".
The US asked Pakistan to take "meaningful action" against terror groups, with the Donald Trump administration calling for India and Pakistan to "exercise restraint" amid heightened tension between the two.
Here are the Updates on Indian Air Force's (IAF) strike on Jaish terror camp in Pakistan
"We are keeping a constant vigil on the crew members of ships landing at the port here. The crew members who want to go outside the port area are being thoroughly checked," said immigration officer at the port, Manas Ranjan Das.
Mr. Jaitley,
- Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) February 27, 2019
It's BJP & its leadership who require real introspection.
Entire opposition stood as one backing the armed forces & the Govt. Still, Amit Shah & entire BJP resorted to credit seeking for the sacrifice of our martyrs & indulged in blaming the Congress provocatively https://t.co/BlOLgX1gwE
The European Union has said that the rising tension between India and Pakistan has the potential to lead to "dangerous consequences" for the two countries and the wider region and called for utmost restraint.
European Union Commission Vice President Federica Mogherini said in a statement, "Following the recent terrorist attack in Pulwama, tensions along the ''Line of Control'' between India and Pakistan have escalated militarily during the last days. This has the potential to lead to serious and dangerous consequences for the two countries and the wider region."
"The Cross Border terror attack in Pulwama was a reality. The Balakot Operation was India's Anti- Terror preemptive strike to defend its Sovereignty. The whole nation has spoken in one voice. Why, then is India's opposition alleging that the Government is politicising our Anti-Terror Operations. My appeal to India's opposition - "Let the country speak in one voice". Please introspect - 'Your ill advised statement is being used by Pakistan to bolster its case'," Arun Jaitley in a series of tweets.
One flight en route to Delhi today has turned back over the Atlantic Ocean and is returning to Toronto, while a second flight from Vancouver to Delhi today has been cancelled.
"As a country that has suffered from the scourge of terrorism for nearly three decades, Sri Lanka has unequivocally condemned this terrorist attack in Pulwama and stands firmly by the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. Sri Lanka strongly supports peace and stability in the South Asia region and all endeavours towards the diffusion of tensions, including the resolution of bilateral problems through dialogue and building confidence": Sri Lanka
Deeply pained to hear that one of our #IAF pilots is missing.
- H D Kumaraswamy (@hd_kumaraswamy) February 27, 2019
I pray for his safe and speedy return.
The nation stands in solidarity with our armed forces.#IndianAirForce
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has chaired a high level meeting in Delhi. He has met the three services chiefs, along with National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval.
This is in contrast to the India's non-military anti-terror pre-emptive strike at a JeM terrorist camp in Balakot on 26 February 2019. It is unfortunate that instead of fulfilling its international obligation and bilateral commitment to take credible action against terrorist entities and individuals operating from its soil, Pakistan has acted with aggression against India.
It was clearly conveyed that India reserves the right to take firm and decisive action to protect its national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity against any act of aggression or cross-border terrorism.
India also strongly objected to Pakistan's vulgar display of an injured personnel of the Indian Air Force in violation of all norms of International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva Convention. It was made clear that Pakistan would be well advised to ensure that no harm comes to the Indian defence personnel in its custody. India also expects his immediate and safe return.
Regret was expressed at continuing denial by Pakistan's political and and military leadership at the presence of terrorist infrastructure in territories under its control. A dossier was handed over to Pakistan side with specific details of JeM complicity in Pulwama terror attack and the presence of JeM terror camps and its leadership in Pakistan. It was conveyed that India expects Pakistan to take immediate and verifiable action against terrorism emanating from territories under its control."
India has confirmed that an Air Force pilot is in Pakistan's custody. "India also strongly objected to Pakistan's vulgar display of an injured personnel of the Indian Air Force in violation of all norms of International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva Convention. It was made clear that Pakistan would be well advised to ensure that no harm comes to the Indian defence personnel in its custody. India also expects his immediate and safe return," a Ministry of External Affairs statement said.
"We express our serious concern about the aggravation of the situation along the Line of Control between India and Pakistan and the outbreak of tensions between friendly states. We call on both sides to show restraint and step up efforts to resolve existing problems by political and diplomatic means": Russia
"The meeting of 21 parties expressed their deep anguish over the blatant politicization of the sacrifices made by our Armed Forces by leaders of the ruling party. National security must transcend narrow political considerations": Congress president Rahul Gandhi read out a joint statement .
🇮🇳 I'm sorry to hear that one of our brave IAF pilots is missing. I hope he will return home soon, unharmed. We stand by our armed forces in these difficult times. 🇮🇳
- Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) February 27, 2019
21 political parties have issued a joint statement, condemning the Pulwama terror attack. They paid homage to the CRPF soldiers who died in the line of duty. The political parties "lauded the action taken by the Indian Air Force against the terrorist camp on 26th February 2019 and praised our Armed Forces for their valour and bravery".
Bahrain's national carrier Gulf Air suspended all flights to and from Pakistan on Wednesday as well, according to Reuters.
Heightened security was seen in Mumbai, the commercial capital of the country. Police vigil has been enhanced in Pune, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Nashik and Kolhapur as well. The government is ensuring there is no disturbance to the ongoing HSC (Class XII) examinations in the state.
In Mumbai, the tension was palpable on city roads and highways where random checks were being carried out in private and commercial vehicles, BEST or private buses, according to news agency PTI.
Security was tightened at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), major stations and terminals of Western Railway, Central Railway, Konkan Railway, suburban railway stations with high footfalls, bus depots and other sensitive installations in and around the city, reported PTI.
Police checks have also been intensified at the CSMIA, cargo complex and major hotels in its vicinity, and armed police and dog squads were scrutinising the luggage of passengers at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Dadar Terminus, Lokmanya Tilak Terminus from where most long-distance trains arrive or depart, said a PTI report.
Increased patrolling was seen at important government and private residential and commercial establishments including the Mantralaya, the Legislature Building, headquarters of banks, airlines, shipping companies, luxury hotels, malls and multiplexes, top tourist destinations, places of worship, educational institutions, etc.
Services at nine airports, including Srinagar, Jammu and Leh, in north India were temporarily suspended in view of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) later in the day said the services at the nine airports have resumed "as of now," according to news agency PTI.
"We are strictly following all guidelines of the Air Force, and we will continue to do that," Mr Sinha said on the sidelines of an event in New Delhi.
Asked how many flights have been impacted, Mr Sinha said, "I don''t have the number. But, as I said, we are following the instructions of the air force."
Lt Gen Naravane, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, emphasised the need for remaining alert at all times to meet the emerging security challenges, the official said, according to PTI.
Lt Gen Naravane reviewed the security situation and operational preparedness of the formation at the military station, where the country's first mountain strike corps will be based.
The Brahmastra Corps, or XVII Corps, which was raised in Ranchi, will shortly be shifting to Panagarh, the official said.
I am praying for the safe return of our brave pilot. May God protect you and give you courage and strength. The nation stands with you.
- Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) February 27, 2019
"The Pakistan Air Force was detected and the Indian Air Force responded instantly. In that aerial engagement, one Pakistan Air Force fighter aircraft was shot down by a MiG 21 Bison of the Indian Air Force. The Pakistani aircraft was seen by ground forces falling from the sky on the Pakistan side. In this engagement, we have unfortunately lost one MiG 21. The pilot is missing in action. Pakistan has claimed that he is in their custody. We are ascertaining the facts," said the spokesperson.
Unfortunate and sorry to hear that MEA briefing states that 'India lost a plane and the pilot is missing in action'. pic.twitter.com/UzncLhRt3F
- Ajay Maken (@ajaymaken) February 27, 2019
"I remember when US Navy Seals (commandos) went to Abbottabad to kill (Al-Qaeda chief) Osama bin Laden, then why can't India? This used to be only an imagination, a wish, a frustration and disappointment. But it's possible today," said Mr Jaitley, who was defence minister before Nirmala Sitharaman was given charge of the ministry in late 2017.
The Pakistan Air Force was detected and the Indian Air Force responded instantly. In that aerial engagement, one Pakistan Air Force fighter aircraft was shot down by a MiG 21 Bison of the Indian Air Force. The Pakistani aircraft was seen by ground forces falling from the sky on the Pakistan side. In this engagement, we have unfortunately lost one MiG 21. The pilot is missing in action. Pakistan has claimed that he is in their custody. We are ascertaining the facts."
France is working on a proposal to ban chief of the UN-proscribed Jaish-e Mohammed (JeM) Masood Azhar after it assumes the Presidency of the powerful UN Security Council in March, sources said.
Security has been beefed up on board all trains operating in border areas and on railway premises, he said, according to PTI.
"We have issued an alert to all General Managers of zones in view of the prevailing security scenario. All trains to the mainland and valley in Jammu and Kashmir have additional security personnel on board. We have also identified specific targets related to railways and have beefed up security there," RPF DG, Arun Kumar told PTI.
He also said that no trains to Jammu and Kashmir have been cancelled so far.
"What we are concerned about is that India and Pakistan, as important countries of the South Asian subcontinent, can maintain good neighbourly and friendly relations," foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said at a regular press briefing, according to AFP.
"We hope that both India and Pakistan can exercise restraint, take initiatives that are conducive to promoting dialogue, meet halfway and make active efforts for lasting peace and stability in South Asia," Lu said, quoted by AFP.
The reported downing of the Indian planes ignited fears of an all-out conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours. It came a day after India said it had struck terror camps inside Pakistan.
China is one of Pakistan's closest allies.
Pakistan today claimed "strikes across Line of Control from within Pakistani airspace", the allegations reflecting an escalation of hostilities a day after Indian fighter jets destroyed a terror training camp within Pakistan. The entire airspace north of Delhi has been vacated and eight airports have been shut down indefinitely amid an escalation of tension between India and Pakistan a day after Indian Air Force Jets crossed the Line of Control and struck a terror training camp.
It is telling that no country, including China, has spoken out in favour of Pakistan after India's air strike on a terror camp in the country, a former Pakistani envoy to the US said Tuesday, asserting that it was reflective that the world's patience on terrorist safe havens is running thin.
#Update: Due to airspace restriction, flights to/from Dehradun (DED) & Jaisalmer (JSA) are affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status via https://t.co/VkU7yLjrw0.
- SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) February 27, 2019
In a press release titled "Pakistani Strikes Back", Islamabad said "This was not a retaliation to continued Indian belligerence. Pakistan has therefore, taken strikes at non military target, avoiding human loss and collateral damage. Sole purpose being to demonstrate our right, will and capability for self defence. We have no intention of escalation, but are fully prepared to do so if forced into that paradigm. That is why we undertook the action with clear warning and in broad daylight."
"Due to air space restrictions, flights UK611 (Delhi-Sringar-Jammu), UK612 (Jammu-Srinagar-Delhi), UK735 (Mumbai-Amritsar), UK736 (Amritsar-Mumbai), UK976 (Delhi-Amritsar) and UK707 (Amritsar-Delhi) stand cancelled for today," the tweet from Vistara Airlines said.
#Update1. Due to air space restrictions, flights UK611 (Delhi-Sringar-Jammu), UK612 (Jammu-Srinagar-Delhi), UK735 (Mumbai-Amritsar), UK736 (Amritsar-Mumbai), UK976 (Delhi-Amritsar) and UK707 (Amritsar-Delhi) stand cancelled for today. Please stay tuned for the updates.Thank you.
- Vistara (@airvistara) February 27, 2019
#6ETravelAdvisory : Due to airspace closure, flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh, Amritsar and Dehradun have been temporarily suspended. To opt for cancellations or alternate options click on Plan B https://t.co/ofwzjniT1l
- IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) February 27, 2019
PM Modi was answering questions from youngsters during the National Youth Festival 2019 when he was handed over a small piece of paper by an official of Prime Minister Office (PMO), according to ANI.
PM Modi stopped and walked toward the panelist where Union Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore was also present.
The PM waived at the audience and immediately left the dais and rushed to his office, according to ANI.
"This was not a retaliation to continued Indian belligerence. Pakistan has therefore, taken strikes at non military target, avoiding human loss and collateral damage. Sole purpose being to demonstrate our right, will and capability for self defence. We have no intention of escalation, but are fully prepared to do so if forced into that paradigm.
That is why we undertook the action with clear warning and in broad daylight," said the Pakistani statement.
Pakistan claims "strikes across Line of Control from within Pak airspace", says "purpose to demonstrate right to self-defence"
During the meeting, attended by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval among others, a detailed presentation was given about the security situation in the country and steps taken to ensure peace in all sensitive places, according to PTI.
Mr Singh directed the officials to ensure the Border Security Force, which guards the India-Pakistan border continues to remain on highest level of alertness so that any misadventure from across the border could be foiled, a home ministry official said, according to PTI.
#TravelUpdate. Due to airspace restrictions, flights to and from Amritsar, Srinagar, Chandigarh and Jammu are currently on hold. Customers are requested to check flight status before commencing their journey to the airport. (1/2)
- Vistara (@airvistara) February 27, 2019
The parliamentary leaders will also be given an in-camera briefing by the government on the situation after India's strikes.
The National Command Authority controls policy formulation, exercises, deployment, research and development, employment and operational command and control of the country''s nuclear arsenals, according to PTI.
The decision to call the NCA meeting was taken on Tuesday in the meeting of National Security Committee - a civil-military top level body that discussed the situation after the Indian attack.
The joint session of Parliament has been called today (Wednesday) to discuss the tension with India and formulate a national response, reported PTI.
The parliamentary leaders will also be given an in-camera briefing by the government on the situation after India''s strikes.
The area has been on high alert amid warnings of retaliation after India's fighter jets crossed the Line of Control and destroyed a vast terror camp within Pakistan in a pre-dawn strike on Tuesday.
There have been reports of Pakistani fighter jets violating Indian air space in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri sectors.
India has been invited for the very first time to attend the foreign ministers' conclave in Abu Dhabi next month where Sushma Swaraj will be the "guest of honour".
Speaking to Geo News, Shah Mahmood Qureshi said, according to IANS: "I have spoken to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister and have expressed my reservations over her (Sushma Swaraj) invitation. I have made myself clear that India has shown aggression. Under the current circumstances, it will not be possible for me to attend OIC meeting where Sushma Swaraj is present."
It is telling that no country, including China, has spoken out in favour of Pakistan after India's air strike on a terror camp in the country, a former Pakistani envoy to the US said Tuesday, asserting that it was reflective that the world's patience on terrorist safe havens is running thin.
"It is telling that no country has spoken out in Pakistan's favour after the Indian air strike," Husain Haqqani, the former Pakistani Ambassador to the US, told PTI.
India bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's (JeM) biggest training camp in Balakot in Pakistan''s restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, about 80-km from the Line of Control (LoC) early Tuesday, killing a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders.
The strike was the first by the Indian Air Force (IAF) inside Pakistan after the 1971 war.
The US has asked Pakistan to take "meaningful action" against terrorist groups a day after India destroyed a major terror training camp across the Line of Control. The Donald Trump administration also called for India and Pakistan to "exercise restraint" amid heightened tension between the two countries.
A day after India sent its fighter jets across the Line of Control to strike a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp within Pakistan, Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj said in China that India wants to avoid any "further escalation of the situation" and will "continue to act with responsibility and restraint".
"Such dastardly terrorist attacks are grim reminder for all the countries to show zero tolerance to terrorism and take decisive action against them," she said at the meeting attended by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavarov.
The US has asked Pakistan to take action against terrorist groups a day after India destroyed a major terror training camp across the Line of Control. The Donald Trump administration also called for India and Pakistan to "exercise restraint" amid heightened tension between the two countries.
"I expressed to both Ministers that we encourage India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, and avoid escalation at any cost," Pompeo said in a statement issued in Washington on Tuesday.
"I also encouraged both Ministers to prioritize direct communication and avoid further military activity," he said, according to news agency Reuters.
Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday raised the recent Pulwama suicide attack in her crucial bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi here, a day after India destroyed a major Jaish-e-Muhammed (JeM) terror training camp in Pakistan.
"I am visiting China at a time when there is grief and anger in India. It is the worst terrorist attack directed against our security forces in Jammu and Kashmir," she said in her opening remarks during the meeting held on the side-lines of Russia, India, China Foreign Ministers meeting, according to PTI.
"The attack was carried out by Jaish-e-Muhammed, the Pakistan-based and supported terrorist organisation," she said.
An encounter broke out early this morning between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian, a day after Indian fighter jets struck a training camp of the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Pakistani troops fired mortar shells and small arms across the Line of Control at several areas in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday in a sharp escalation of ceasefire violations that have been underway for the last three consecutive days.
An encounter broke out early this morning between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian, a day after Indian fighter jets struck a training camp of the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Hours after Indian Air Force fighter planes struck a terror camp in Balakot across the Pakistan border, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj left for China to attend a Russia-India-China meeting on Tuesday night. She is also expected to hold bilateral meetings on the pre-dawn air strike with foreign ministers of the two countries.