By IANS,
New Delhi : Defence Minister A.K. Antony Tuesday ruled out military action against Pakistan but said bilateral relations would not be normal until Islamabad takes action against terrorists operating from its soil.
“We are not planning any military action… but at the same time unless Pakistan takes actions against those terrorists who are operating from their soil against India and also against all those who are behind the Mumbai terrorist attack, things will not be normal,” he said.
The minister was speaking to reporters at the India Gate monument here after laying a wreath on the occasion of Vijay Diwas that marks the 37th anniversary of the Indian victory over Pakistan.
The comments come amid mounting international pressure on Pakistan to act against terrorists widely believed to be linked to the Mumbai terror attack.
“I cannot say what course of action we will take but, unless Pakistan shows sincerity in whatever they are saying through their actions, one thing is very sure – that there is no question of things as usual,” said Antony.
Antony also said the armed forces were prepared for any eventuality. The three forces are on “high alert” following hightened tensions between the two neighbours in the wake of the Mumbai terror strike, which left over 170 dead and over 300 injured.
“Everything is normal because our forces are always ready.”
He also denied revoking the ceasefire in place between India and Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) since 2003.
Two days ago, Pakistan alleged that Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets intruded into its territory in two sectors, a charge denied by India. Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari later Sunday toned down the allegation by calling it a “technical intrusion”.
Antony was accompanied by the three service chiefs — Admiral Sureesh Mehta, General Deepak Kapoor and Air Chief Marshal Fali H. Major.