TCN News
In view of rise in ceasefire violations, and particularly the increase in aggression recently, along the Line of Control, Aaghaz-e-Dosti has appealed to the governments of India and Pakistan to constitute a mechanism to control and to effectively stop the cycle of violence.
“Being a cross-border friendship initiative, where large number of people, especially youth, strive towards peace between the countries, we believe that our appeal for a completely ceasefire reflects the desire of thousands of people who hope for peaceful co-existence,” said the statement from Aaghaz-e-Dosti.
It further said, “We believe that differences and disputes between the countries should not take violent turn, or through aggressive military tactics and instead should resolved mutually through dialogue and diplomacy. The lives of soldiers and civilians are on stake in this escalation of violation along the LOC.”
There have been reports of killing of an Indian soldier in Nowgam sector of J&K’s Kupwara district allegedly by a sniper fire and another death of a security personnel and a child in forward posts and civilian areas in Rajouri district. It is also reported that a soldier and two civilians were injured in Uri sector. It is said that over 8,000 people have been affected in past few days.
On Pakistan side of the border, it is claimed that three people including a soldier were killed and five other civilians were injured due to firing along LoC in Nezapir, Sabzkot and Kayani sectors by Indian side. Prior to this, two civilians, a woman in Baroh sector and a man in Tandar sector were killed. Reports claim an army jeep fell in Neelum river when it came under cross border firing and four soldiers died.
Initiative said, “We observe that both sides claim ‘unprovoked ceasefire violation’ from the other side. But, no one seems to be trying to break this cycle of violence. These are ceasefire violations and in contrary to the 2003 agreement which had reduced cross-border killings for some time. Recently, these incidents of deaths and violations have increase.”
Putting the data upfront that 41% of people in India are under the age of 20, while 60% in Pakistan are under the age of 30, the statement pens the need to address the priorities, “Clearly, there is a need for both countries to strive towards mutual peace and development to sustain a healthy future for youth. Priorities should include coming together to overcome the challenge of development through trade, travel, educational and healthcare partnerships.”
Stating that both countries had managed to resolve the ceasefire violation in 2003 mutually, Aaghaz-e-Dosti said, “We appeal to both governments to find ways to resolve their conflicts and take concrete steps to stop any ceasefire violation through learning from past. In the present scenario, both government have opportunity to take steps for peace that will be remembered by millions of people.”