Srinagar, May 07 (KNO): As tensions escalate along the Line of Control (LoC), authorities in Jammu and Kashmir are painting the internationally recognised Red Cross symbol on the roofs of hospitals in border districts.
This precautionary measure aims to protect healthcare facilities from possible aerial or artillery strikes during cross-border escalations, the health department officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
They said the initiative aligns with international humanitarian norms under the Geneva Conventions, which protect medical personnel and infrastructure during armed conflicts. "The Red Cross emblem signals that the building is a medical facility and must not be targeted, as per international humanitarian law," an official said.
Hospitals in Kupwara, Baramulla, Srinagar, Anantnag and other areas near the border have implemented the measure. The precaution follows a recent rise in ceasefire violations between India and Pakistan, with sporadic shelling reported.
Tensions further escalated on Wednesday after India conducted attacks at multiple locations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Authorities said similar protective measures will be extended to more hospitals if the situation worsens—(KNO)