Despite heightened Indo-Pak tensions, officials confirmed on Monday that no firing incidents have been reported along the International Border in Amritsar or other border districts of Punjab. However, several civilian restrictions and closures remain in place as a precautionary measure.
Educational institutions to remain closed
In light of the ongoing situation, all government-aided private schools, colleges, and universities in the Amritsar district will remain closed on Monday. The administration has allowed teachers to conduct online classes from home, emphasizing that no teacher should be physically present at the school premises.
School closures have also been enforced in other sensitive areas, including Pathankot, Ferozepur, Gurdaspur, Tarn Taran, and Sangrur. The Moga Deputy Commissioner has appealed to residents to voluntarily observe blackout measures during night hours.
Blackouts in border districts
On Sunday night, blackout protocols were in effect in parts of Pathankot, Dinanagar, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, and Batala as a safety precaution. These measures come amid rising concern over drone activity and potential security threats in the border region.
CM Mann: “Can’t Trust Pakistan”
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that despite the current ceasefire, preparations must continue. “Punjab is a border state, and we cannot trust Pakistan,” he said. He also announced plans to equip the state’s borders with anti-drone systems to boost defensive capabilities.
BJP seeks special status for Punjab
Amid the security crisis, the Punjab BJP President has demanded that the Center grant Punjab special status, similar to that of Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, to facilitate long-term economic and developmental aid due to its strategic vulnerability.
Situation at Amritsar airport
After a review meeting held at Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, MP Gurjit Singh Aujla assured the public that the situation is under control. Aujla, along with Airport Authority Director Sudarshan Kumar and CISF officials, assessed the security arrangements following drone attacks linked to Pakistan. The MP has urged authorities to resume limited flight operations as conditions stabilize.
Drone attack plot: Over 12 Pakistani airbases used
According to military intelligence sources, Pakistan attempted coordinated drone attacks targeting Punjab, using over 12 airbases, including Shahbazpur, Bahawalnagar, Murid, Chunian, Rafiqui, Sargodha, and Multan. The attacks were focused on regions from Fazilka to Pathankot, especially targeting major Army and Air Force installations.
The intent, sources said, was to disrupt India's military logistics and weaken strategic positions, but India's defense systems successfully neutralized the threat. Many of the Pakistani airbases used are located just 50 to 200 kilometers from Punjab, increasing the region’s vulnerability to future drone incursions.