Date:03/01/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/01/03/stories/2003010305030100.htm

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'Musharraf remark has no significance'

By K. Balchand

PATNA Jan. 2. The Defence Minister, George Fernandes, today said that the Pakistan President, Pervez Musharraf's, reported statement about ``using nuclear arms'' against India was ``rubbish'' and would not escalate tension on the border.

Mr. Fernandes said the statement had no significance in the wake of Pakistan's subsequent denial.

He said he did not take the statement seriously as Gen. Musharraf had not only ruled out the nuclear options but had also said that only ``mad people'' could think of such a possibility.

"He has declared himself irresponsible, besides certifying his own being," Mr. Fernandes said.