By M S Nazki
Amid intense shelling and heavy firing from across the Line of Control (LoC), the district administration and police personnel in Poonch ,Mendhar and Surankote of Poonch district demonstrated exceptional courage, efficiency, and compassion. Their tireless efforts under “Operation Sindoor” have been widely hailed by the local population for saving lives and minimizing civilian casualties during one of the most tense episodes of cross-border hostilities in recent times.
Under the overall supervision and command of Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Shri Vikas Kundal, (IAS ) the civil administration coordinated round-the-clock relief and evacuation operations in vulnerable and affected areas. Despite the looming threat of continuous shelling, the administration worked shoulder to shoulder with police and medical teams to ensure timely evacuation of the injured and provision of emergency services.
The Poonch police, under the leadership of SSP Shafqat Hussain, acted with unmatched professionalism and bravery. ASP Poonch, DySP Headquarters, SHOs of concerned police stations, and field police units rushed to ground zero immediately after each shell hit the area. Their swift response ensured that casualties were kept to a minimum. These police officers risked their own lives as they evacuated the injured and shifted them to the District Hospital in Poonch for immediate medical treatment.
Equally commendable was the contribution of Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Poonch, Dr. Parvez Ahmed Khan, who personally supervised his medical teams throughout the operation. His leadership ensured that the District Hospital functioned efficiently despite the surge in casualties and mounting pressure.
SDMs of Mendhar and Surankote, along with Tehsildars and SDPOs of both regions, played a key role in organizing local rescue operations. Their coordination with local volunteers and civil defense personnel ensured smooth and safe evacuation in the most affected villages. The local administration’s resilience and preparedness prevented panic and restored confidence among the border population.
Local residents and civil society groups have urged the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to acknowledge and reward the bravery of not only civil and police officials but also the selfless volunteers and media personnel who helped disseminate vital information and assisted helpless civilians during the shelling.
The collective efforts under Operation Sindoor have set an inspiring example of how administration, police, and society can work together to protect and serve during critical emergencies.
