The Punjab government has suspended all types of leaves for employees of government departments in response to the prevailing emergency situation.
The Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) released the directive, stating that no government officer or employee would be allowed to proceed on leave until further orders. The step was taken "in view of the emergent situation," the notification read.
Although the notification did not specify the exact nature of the emergency, it follows escalating regional tensions after a reported Indian air attack on urban areas of Pakistan late Monday night.
According to military sources, the Indian Air Force launched a strike under the cover of darkness, targeting civilian and strategic locations. Pakistan's armed forces retaliated promptly, claiming to have shot down five Indian warplanes, including three Rafale jets. The response also reportedly resulted in the destruction of multiple Indian military installations, including a brigade headquarters.
Official statements from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) have not yet been released, but initial reports suggest that the Indian military raised a white flag at the Chura complex along the Line of Control (LoC), signalling a de facto surrender in the immediate theatre of conflict.
No civilian casualties have been reported so far, though rescue operations are said to be underway in the affected urban zones.
Security across Punjab and other provinces has been intensified, with hospitals placed on high alert and emergency services directed to remain operational around the clock.
