border-bsfNew Delhi today rejected Islamabad’s allegations of unprovoked firing by Indian security forces along the International Border. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup said, Indian forces neither initiate a ceasefire violation nor do they target civilians.

They retaliate in a very restrained manner when either their defensive posts or personnel are targeted or cover fire is provided by the Pakistani army to allow infiltrators to cross the Line of Control.

He said, India lodged a strong protest with Pakistan on killing of its civilians in shelling by Pakistan forces.

Mr Swarup said, in several districts along the International Border and LoC normal life has been affected, people have been displaced and over 100 schools have been closed.

He said, approximately two-thirds of the ceasefire violations this year by Pakistan have taken place in last five weeks.