The Home Minister said that in frustration, Pakistan retaliated the next day by targeting civilian areas in J&K.“Poonch was the worst hit, and it was for the first time since Azadi that Poonch came under such intense Pakistani shelling. Pakistani troops targeted civilian areas and religious places including Gurudwaras, Mandirs and Masjids,” he said, adding, “Today, the whole world is condemning the Pakistan attack.”At least 18 civilians, including 13 in Poonch, 3 in Rajouri, one in Uri and one in Jammu, were killed in the Pakistani shelling.“When Pakistan targeted our civilian areas and civilians, the Indian army responded and gave a strong and befitting reply. It damaged nine air bases of Pakistan, which eventually forced them to agree to a ceasefire,” Shah said.Sending a clear message, the Home Minister asserted that India would not tolerate any attack on civilians, the army or the border.“India will not tolerate any type of attack and will give a precise and strong reply. Our military has already done it,” he said. “Our army and our security forces are capable enough to respond strongly to everything.”Shah also reiterated that J&K’s development would not be halted.“The speed with which the development of J&K has started since 2014 will continue. It (development) will continue with the same speed,” he said.On the occasion, Shah announced that the Government of India would announce a special package for shelling-affected border residents of J&K.He also announced that more underground bunkers would be constructed to ensure the safety of border residents.
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