There is no "just a stone"
Have you guys ever had a stone flung at you full force? If it hits your head, it can kill. If it hits your eye, it can blind.
So yes, there really is no "just a few stones"
Even so, our forces do not retaliate with lethal force. But when stone pelters give covering fire to armed militants, and soldiers die, that is simply not acceptable. No country in the world would tolerate that. Not yours either.
So our Chief gave fair warning. Clearly spelling out the rules of engagement.
And this is the execution. Which I guess is now going to be the new normal.