Day after ceasefire, blackout raises suspicion among locals

Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the nation, another blackout was imposed in Amritsar last night, just a day after India and Pakistan announced a ceasefire.

With frequent blackouts, normal life has been disrupted. Residents are now questioning the durability of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, with many expressing doubt about the timing of the blackout, which came only two days after the ceasefire announcement.

Gunbir Singh, a resident of Green Avenue, says, “After a night of blackout and a morning filled with sirens, it seems fair to conclude that our neighbour has shifted from a policy of a thousand cuts to one of ten thousand nicks. Eventually, the Indian elephant will charge like never before. This, of course, considering the ongoing drone incursions. It may just become the new normal — until it doesn’t.”

Harman Soch, another resident, says, “A blast was heard across the city and a blackout was imposed. Later, a holiday was declared in Amritsar on May 13 due to a drill.”

Rameshinder Singh Sandhu, a resident of Khasa, adds, “This has caused confusion and panic among many. The local administration should provide clarification to ease the worries of residents. In the meantime, decision-makers should refrain from taking actions that could provoke Pakistan, as the situation in border areas is always tense and uncertain.”

GS Bedi, a resident of Ranjit Avenue, says, “Blackouts are an outdated method of avoiding aerial attacks. They were used during the 1971 war when pilots had to identify targets. Now, drones and missiles are guided by satellites, and the target's coordinates are marked precisely. Pilots no longer have difficulty finding targets in the dark, especially since planes are equipped with night vision instruments.”

Nidhi Khurrana, a resident of The Mall, says, “The ceasefire is likely to be durable. The blackout drill following the ceasefire was simply a precautionary measure taken by local authorities. We have complete faith in our Prime Minister.”