National

Pakistan flayed for rejecting evidence

Chandigarh: Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma on Wednesday criticised Pakistan for denying the involvement of elements based in that country in the Mumbai attacks and pointed out that Islamabad’s “defiance” of the world opinion would not be conducive for the overall stability of the region.

“We have given enough evidence [against the perpetrators of the terror attacks]. Evidence is not only with India but also with the investigating agencies of the U.S. and the U.K.,” he told reporters here.

Mr. Sharma said the U.N. Security Council had adopted a unanimous resolution against terrorism. “It is regrettable that Pakistan has been rejecting [evidence]. Pakistan is in a state of denial and defiance of the world opinion is not conducive for the overall stability of the region.”

He said “it will be good if the acknowledgment is given forthwith by Pakistan. This fact [who is involved in the Mumbai strikes] is known to the entire world. Everyone knows who the conspirators are and from where they came. Instead of being in a denial mode, Pakistan should take effective steps to bring those responsible for attacks to justice,” he said.

Noting that India did not want any military action against Pakistan, he said: “firm diplomatic initiatives have given results. We are a mature democracy...we are talking of individuals and organisations based in Pakistan.”

Admitting that the relations between the two countries were at “one of the lowest” levels, he said Pakistan was responsible for escalation of tension.

Mr. Sharma cautioned Pakistan against any misadventure. — PTI

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu