OLD GOA: Stating that the government has not taken the issue of terror attacks in Kashmir lightly, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said comprehensive measures are in place which will be executed in due course of time.
Parrikar made the statement when questioned on what will be India’s response when it has been established that arms and ammunitions recovered in Kashmir, during the recent terror attacks, were manufactured in Pakistan.
“We cannot discuss these measures publicly or with the media,” he stated while condemning the attack as an attempt by vested forces to derail the process of democratization in Kashmir.
“Some 72% voters turned up for the Kashmir election, more than Jharkhand, which shows that the people are interested in returning to the national mainstream,” Parrikar said and opined that this figure has unnerved the vested interests of those who are now resorting to such cowardly acts.
Touching the issue of him not visiting Kashmir during the terror attacks, due to which he faced criticism in certain quarters, Parrikar said that the Army Chief visited Kashmir thrice. “I was in constant touch with the Army Chief and was getting feedback on an hourly basis,” the minister said.
“If I had to personally visit Kashmir, half of the security personnel would have been diverted to ensure my safety,” he further stated.
