Women and Children Among 24 Martyred as Indian Strikes Devastate Civilian Areas in Pakistan
Targeted attacks kill 13 in Bahawalpur, 9 in AJK; majority of victims are women and families
ISLAMABAD – In a brutal escalation of violence, at least 24 civilians, including a large number of women and children, were martyred while 61 others were injured following a series of Indian missile and shelling attacks across Punjab and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) in the past 24 hours.
According to Pakistan’s military, the strikes intentionally targeted residential zones, schools, and healthcare centers, putting families — especially women and children — in the direct line of fire.
Bahawalpur: Women and Families Hit Hardest
In one of the worst-hit areas, Bahawalpur, a missile attack devastated a peaceful neighborhood, claiming 13 lives — including 7 women and 2 children.
At least 36 others, mostly women and elderly, were injured and rushed to Bahawal Victoria Hospital, where emergency rooms remain overwhelmed. Many are battling for their lives.
Muzaffarabad, AJK: Shelling Targets Homes
In Muzaffarabad, AJK, Indian shelling killed 9 civilians, among them women and young girls, and left 9 injured.
In the Nakial area of Kotli, three civilians — including a mother and her daughter — lost their lives.
Further south in Haveli District, attacks martyred two more, while Poonch Division reported additional women and children among the injured.
Muridke: Health & Education Center Targeted
In Muridke, Punjab, a missile strike on a Government Health and Educational Complex killed 2 civilians and injured 12 more, including female staff and students.
ISPR Condemns Civilian Attacks
The DG ISPR revealed in a high-level briefing that 24 coordinated attacks were carried out overnight on six locations across Pakistan — with clear intent to target civilian populations, women, and children.
“Among the martyred are mothers, daughters, and a young girl,” said the spokesperson. “This is not crossfire; this is direct aggression against innocent lives.”
The situation remains critical, with hospitals overwhelmed and rescue teams working relentlessly. Pakistan has responded by shooting down six Indian jets and destroying a brigade headquarters, as confirmed by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif.
