Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday described the situation in Poonch district as “grim” following intense shelling by Pakistani forces, highlighting that the region has borne the brunt of recent cross-border hostilities.

“Poonch has suffered a huge loss. Poonch has the highest number of casualties and the most injured. I was in Jammu hospital sometime before, and all the injured admitted there are from Poonch... the situation in Poonch is grim,” Abdullah said while addressing the media.

The renewed violence in Poonch is part of a broader escalation across the Line of Control, as Pakistan continues shelling and ceasefire violations following India’s counter-terror operation, Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.

Abdullah also stated that efforts are being made to reach out to the affected people. “The Deputy CM is trying to reach Poonch. If he reaches there, he will meet the people,” he added, signalling the administration’s intent to provide support on the ground.