Terror a weapon of cowards: Rajnath tells Pakistan

Speaking at the 55th raising day event of border guarding force Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) at its camp here, he said strict vigil by the force has resulted in 60 per cent less transgressions into the Indian territory by the Chinese People’s Liberation Army this year.

Referring to the current tensions between the two countries, he said the neighbour has been trying to harm India and was attempting to break and “destabilise” it by resorting to terrorism.

Singh said an “evil eye” is being cast on India to thwart its progress as it is marching on as one of the fastest growing economies of the world.

Situation along the Indo-Pak border continues to remain tense after terrorists attacked an Army camp in Uri killing 19 soldiers on September 17.

In a retaliatory action, Indian Army carried out surgical strikes on terror launch pads in PoK on September 27. Firing by both Indian and Pakistani forces towards each other’s positions have been continuing leading to several deaths on both sides.

Singh had earlier instructed border guarding forces not to fire towards the enemy first, but not to count bullets if they are fired upon.

Later, while taking questions on the ceasefire violations by Pakistan, he said, “Our soldiers are responding to them befittingly.” 

To a question on the espionage case involving a diplomat of the Pakistani High Commission in India, he said the government is taking necessary action.

There have been several incidents in the past in the icy heights of Himalayas when ITBP had noticed transgression by the Chinese forces and there had been confrontations between the two sides.

All such transgression were successfully foiled by the ITBP personnel, Singh said.

At event, the Home Minister honoured some ITBP personnel whose action led to foiling of PLA’s attempt to transgress Indian territory at Chumar in Ladakh two years ago.

Singh said due to the intensive vigil and bravery of Indian forces, no country in the world can now cast an evil eye on India and everytime he sees these men and women he is filled with pride and confidence that the country is safe.

He also appreciated the personnel of ITBP, posted in Indian missions in Afghanistan, who had foiled terror attacks in Indian consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif and Jalalabd early this year as well as for undertaking effective anti-Naxal operations.

The Home Minister said it was the responsibility of the government to ensure that the morale of the jawans is not let down and various steps are being taken for this.

Chiefs of all forces have to ensure this, he said, adding that he would try his best to resolve the problems of the jawans.