Aadil Abdullah
Bandipora,11 May: The residents of Gurez Valley in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district have expressed their happiness and gratitude towards both India and Pakistan for the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control (LoC). The agreement, they say, has brought a much-needed sense of relief and safety to the border communities that have long suffered from cross-border shelling.
While speaking to the media, Ajaz Dar, a local resident, said, “We are very thankful to both countries for reaching this ceasefire agreement. In the past, we were always affected by shelling, which created fear and panic among the residents. We were often forced to leave our homes and had nowhere to go.”
He added, “After the ceasefire agreement, we feel much safer and hopeful. We are thankful to the governments for this step and pray that such peace continues. Ceasefire violations had become a recurring problem, especially during winters, adding to our hardships.”
Residents of the border areas have long demanded peace and stability, and many now hope that the agreement marks a permanent end to hostilities along the LoC. “We don’t want to suffer anymore. We just want to live peacefully in our homes,” Dar further said.
Mukhtar Ahmad Lone, Ex-BDC Kanzalwan, stated that everyone is aware of the tense, war-like situation, marked by relentless shelling, missile strikes, and escalating hostilities between India and Pakistan. During that period, the residents of Gurez were gripped by panic. Hundreds of families fled the valley, leaving behind everything and seeking shelter in underground bunkers out of fear for their safety. This escalation followed the recent hostilities between the two nations, particularly after the launch of Operation Sindoor by Indian forces.
Another resident shared that since the ceasefire agreement, the people living in border areas are feeling a sense of relief and happiness. Earlier, many had to flee Gurez Valley, and those who stayed had to spend up to three days living in underground bunkers. “We are very thankful to both countries for reaching a ceasefire agreement. It is a welcome step, especially for those residing along the border, as we now hope to live in peace”, he added.
