The Indian Army on Wednesday warned Pakistan against targeting civilians on this side of the Line of Control, saying any “further provocation or misadventure” would have “dire consequences”.

Both armies have been engaged in heavy artillery battle along the LoC over the past few days. Sources said the army, responding to the use of heavy artillery by the Pakistan Army, had opened fire with 155mm Bofors guns that were used during the Kargil war.

“In the last 24 hours, the Pakistan Army resorted to intense & unprovoked firing with heavy calibre weapons in selected areas of Krishna Ghati and Sunderbani, targeting Indian posts & civilian areas with Mortar bombs & heavy Arty Guns. The same was effectively retaliated by the Indian Army. There have been no casualties on the Indian side,” said a statement from the army.

It said the army was “committed” to avoiding civilian casualties. “Any further provocation or misadventure by Pakistan will be responded (to) in a befitting manner with dire consequences.”

The army also said: “Post our warning to the Pakistan Army not to target civilian areas, the overall situation along the Line of Control remains relatively calm.”