Festivity takes over regions along Indo-Pak border in Jammu

Festivity took over the otherwise tense border regions along the Line of Control (LoC) with security forces and civilians celebrating Diwali, undeterred by the spree of ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops this month.
People living in villages along the border lit 'diyas' and candles outside their homes, while personnel from the armed forces and the BSF illuminated several places along the border with earthen lamps.
"The mood was festive all along the border as elsewhere in the region. Luckily, there was no fresh violation of ceasefire and people celebrated Diwali along with the security forces," a senior security official said.

In October, Pakistan violated the ceasefire at least six times. Yesterday, eight civilians, including a two-year-old girl, were injured in indiscriminate firing by Pakistani troops in Poonch and Rajouri districts.
"Security forces are fully prepared to meet any challenge from across the border and are maintaining a close vigil to ensure its sanctity," the official said.
Night patrolling has been intensified and regular exercises are being undertaken to scuttle attempts by terrorists to sneak into the Indian side, he said.
The BSF did not exchanging sweets with Pakistan this time on Diwali, the official said, adding that the frequent ceasefire violation by Pakistan failed to dampen the spirit of border residents.

Temples across the Jammu region were decorated along with markets for the festival, and firecracker shops witnessed a heavy rush of customers since morning.