IED Blast in Jammu | 12 Feb 2025

Why in News? 

Militants planted an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu’s Akhnoor Sector, killing two soldiers. 

 Key Points 

  • IED Blast in Akhnoor Sector: 
    • A suspected IED blast occurred in Laleali, Akhnoor Sector, during a fence patrol, resulting in two fatalities. 
    • The Army has launched search operations and is dominating the area to secure the region. 
    • The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir paid tribute to the soldiers. 
  • Security Concerns: 
    • Despite heightened surveillance along the LoC in J&K, the blast poses a major challenge to security forces. 

 Improvised Explosive Device 

  • An improvised explosive device (IED) is a homemade bomb designed to destroy or incapacitate targets, commonly used by criminals, terrorists, and insurgents in various forms. 
  • IEDs can be delivered through multiple means, including vehicles, placement by individuals, or roadside concealment, and gained prominence during the Iraq War that began in 2003. 

 Improvised Explosive Device 

Line of Control 

  • The Line of Control (LoC) emerged from the 1948 ceasefire line negotiated by the United Nations (UN) after the Kashmir War. 
  • It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries. 
  • LoC is demarcated up to the Siachen Glacier (Point NJ9842)- the world's highest battlefield. 
  • LoC is delineated on a map signed by the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of both armies and has the international sanctity of a legal agreement.