NEWS DELHI: India’s Border Security Force (BSF) on Sunday ordered farmers living along the India-Pakistan border to clear their fields within 48 hours amid escalating tensions after the Pahalgam incident in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) on April 22.
The development comes in the wake of a recent shooting incident in the Pahalgam area of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which left 26 tourists dead.
According to reports, announcements are being made through local Gurdwaras in the border districts of Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, and Fazilka in Indian Punjab, warning farmers to immediately clear their land or risk the closure of border access gates.
Farmers are also being warned that their access to fields located near the border could be suspended indefinitely if they fail to comply.
Approximately 45,000 acres of agricultural land lie between the border fence and the zero line in these areas, where farmers cultivate crops, mainly wheat and cotton.
Living along the 530-kilometer international border, these communities already endure regular security restrictions; however, the recent attack has significantly increased the pressure on them.
However, life remains normal on the Pakistani side of the border. Farmers continue working in their fields without fear or disruption.
On Wednesday, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the main land border crossing with Pakistan, downgraded diplomatic relations, and cancelled visas issued to Pakistani nationals.
In response, Pakistan on Thursday expelled Indian diplomats and military advisers, cancelled visas for Indian citizens—except for Sikh pilgrims—and closed its side of the main land border crossing.
Islamabad also warned that any attempt by India to stop or divert the Indus River waters would be considered an “act of war”.
On Saturday, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan was open to any “neutral and transparent” investigation into the Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
