Weddings continue in PoK amid threat of war between India-Pakistan

Relatives of Rabia Bibi carry her in a hand cart during her wedding in Neelum Valley, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
| Photo Credit: AFP

Rabia Bibi, a glittering red dupatta pulled over her eyes, was not about to let the threat of war with India stop her wedding in a remote valley in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

“In our childhood the situation was also like this but we are not afraid. Nor will we be,” the 18-year-old said after being carried in a flower-garlanded “doli” carriage. “We want peace, so our life does not get affected,” said the bride, radiant in gold bangles, bejewelled bridal headpiece, and richly embroidered scarlet robe.

Tensions between the two countries have soared since the Pahalgam terror attack.

Residents of the picturesque Neelum Valley, with Indian territory on the other side of the river that winds through the mountainous region, said they had been urged by the Pakistani authorities to remain vigilant because of the threat of a possible military confrontation.

In another village, mechanical engineer Shoaib Akhtar was also getting married.

“This is the happiest occasion of our lives, and we will not let anything ruin it,” said the 25-year-old groom surrounded by family. “Right now, I am getting married and that is what matters most. If war comes, we will deal with it when it happens,” he added.