Sitharaman warns Pakistan of retaliation in face of unprovoked attacks
On Tuesday, Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that India would continue to "honor" the ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir, but security forces would undoubtedly retaliate against unprovoked attacks by Pakistan. Her comments come a day after the top commanders of India's and Pakistan's border security paramilitaries met for the second time in a week to reinforce the 2003 ceasefire along the Line-of-Control.
Army will not be silent in face of unprovoked attacks
"When it is an unprovoked attack the [Indian] Army was given the right to retaliate. We honor the ceasefire but of course, a margin was given to us," said Sitharaman, referring to the Centre's decision to halt counter-insurgency operations in J&K for the duration of the holy month of Ramzan. Incidentally, there have been numerous attacks since the decision was taken on May 16.
Attacks have been increasing since counter-insurgency operations were suspended
While four incidents of violence were reported before the May 16th decision, the number rose to 13 within a week, with civilians bearing the brunt of the attacks. Over the last four days, there were 10 attacks in the region. The latest one happened yesterday, leaving 14 civilians and two police officers injured. Terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed claimed responsibility for the attacks.
Terror can't go with talks, Sitharaman warns Pakistan
"Terror and talks cannot go hand in hand...It is our business to guard the border and we won't stop if we're provoked," said Sitharaman in a dire warning to Pakistan.
