Mortar shell recovery in Rajouri underscores dangers of IIOJK militarization
Presence of explosive remnants continues to endanger civilian lives
Jammu: The recovery of an unexploded mortar shell in Rajouri district has once again highlighted the grave risks faced by civilians in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, one of the world’s most heavily militarized regions.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Indian Army personnel recovered a 51-mm mortar shell from an open field in Kayan village of the Rajdhani area during a search operation. The shell, reportedly fired earlier by Indian forces, was later destroyed in a controlled explosion by a bomb disposal squad.
The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of local residents, who continue to live amid extensive military deployments, frequent operations and the presence of unexploded ordnance. Rights observers have repeatedly warned that shells, landmines and other explosive remnants left behind by military activities pose a constant threat to civilians, particularly children, farmers and shepherds who work in fields and remote areas.
They said the continued militarization of the occupied territory has exposed the civilian population to persistent danger, with explosive devices and ammunition becoming an ever-present risk to life and livelihood.
