India saw a wave of unprecedented security restrictions late on Saturday night. Total blackouts were imposed over many sensitive districts in Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir. The simultaneous action was taken against the backdrop of reports of Pakistani drone sightings. Increased cross-border tensions. And ongoing counter-terror operations.

Blackouts Across Border States

In an unusual and authoritative step, officials ordered total power blackouts in several districts that share borders with Pakistan. Punjab, Ferozepur, Moga, and Pathankot went dark, and in Rajasthan, blackouts were ordered in Barmer and Jaisalmer. In Jammu & Kashmir, a total blackout was seen in Jammu and Srinagar both strategic areas in India’s border security perimeter.

Srinagar: Drones Intercepted, Red Streaks Explosions Reported Amidst Blackouts

During the blackout in Srinagar, locals reported witnessing red streaks illuminating the night sky and hearing several explosions. Defence sources subsequently confirmed that India’s air defence systems were triggered after several Pakistani drones were detected and intercepted over the area.

“Air defence effectively countered incoming aerial targets. No damage was reported,” a senior defense official stated. This is yet another heightening of the deployment of drones along the Line of Control, a trend more and more terror groups operating with cross-border support are embracing.

Pahalgam Attack Adds to Rising Tensions

The increased security follows the terror strike in Pahalgam at the start of this week, where militants had attacked a police patrol, killing two personnel and leaving three injured. Security personnel have since escalated an intense combing operation in the region.

Operation Sindoor: India’s Swift Retaliation

After growing threats and the Pahalgam attack, Indian forces launched Operation Sindoor, a major counter-terror operation across important regions of Kashmir and border areas in Punjab and Jammu. The initiative is to neutralise sleeper cells and arrest attempts at infiltration. Initial reports indicate several arrests and seizure of caches of arms.

With blackouts, air defence operations, and regular operations, the security establishment is in high alert. Citizens in the affected areas have been asked to stay indoors and assist the authorities. The coordinated response is a reflection of the changing nature of cross-border threats and India’s preparedness to counter them effectively.