Villagers Return Home as Peace Agreement Brings Relief
Ferozepur/Fazilka, May 15 — Normalcy is gradually returning to the villages along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab, as residents who had fled amid rising tensions between the two countries have begun returning home. The resettlement follows a mutual agreement on May 10 to cease military actions.The border districts of Ferozepur and Fazilka had seen the mass movement of villagers seeking safety after cross-border drone and missile strikes intensified earlier this month. Now, with calm restored, the villages echo with life again.
"Step by Step, Life Is Coming Back"
Malkeet Singh from Jallo Ke village, located close to the International Border, said, "People are coming back and it feels like life is returning to normal, step by step." Recalling the tense days, he added, "The first few days were terrifying. We heard strange sounds at night, and the fear of the unknown kept us all awake."Many families from villages such as Gatti Rajoke, Tendiwala, Kalluwala, Nayi Gatti Rajoke, Jallo, and Rahime Ke Gatti had vacated their homes. Tara Singh of Nayi Gatti Rajoke shared, "After the tensions soared, most people left. It was not easy. Some spent thousands of rupees to bring their belongings to safety."
Trust in the Armed Forces
While some villagers left, others chose to stay. Gurjeet Kaur, 52, said, "No one asked me to leave, and I chose to stay. Some people went to stay with their relatives, but we had faith in the soldiers."Jaswinder Singh, a 16-year-old from Tendiwala, echoed this sentiment. "I feel proud of them for protecting us," he said, referring to the Indian Army.
In Fazilka, villagers such as Babbu Singh of Jodha Bheni praised the Army’s vigilance. "With our forces at the border, there was no fear. The administration also kept us well-informed with timely guidance," he said.
During the period of heightened tension, the Army intercepted a Pakistani drone near Fazilka, successfully averting potential damage.
Historical Pride and Present Unity
Residents recalled the 1971 war and the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers to protect Fazilka. The Asafwala War Memorial symbolizes bravery and continues to be revered by locals.Sanjay Kumar from Khanwala, a village just one kilometre from the border, said, "When the Army is present, it boosts our confidence. Like every Indian, we take pride in our armed forces. Their presence allows us to sleep peacefully at night."
The people of Pakka Chishti village stood united, asserting, "As long as the Army stands guard, we are safe."
Administration Commends Public Support
Fazilka Deputy Commissioner Amarpreet Kaur Sandhu commended the citizens for their cooperation. "Where people are so united with the forces and the administration, no enemy can ever dare to cross the border," she stated.With the ceasefire, markets have reopened, schools are functioning, and daily life is picking up, marking a hopeful turn for these resilient border communities.
