Press Briefings

Response by Official Spokesperson to Pakistan-related queries

05/02/2009

To a question on a reported public meeting of banned organizations in POK, the Official Spokesperson said:

“We have seen reports that representatives of terrorist groups Jaish-e-Muhammad, Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, Jamat-ud-Dawa participated in a public meeting yesterday at Muzaffarabad in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. No effort was made by the authorities to curb the activities of these groups. We strongly condemn the license that banned terrorist organizations continue to enjoy in territory under Pakistan’s control.”

To a question whether it is at all safe for Indians to travel to Pakistan, the Official Spokesperson said:

“The concerns which led to the travel advisory of 26th December, 2008 still very much exist. Indian Nationals are advised that it would be unsafe for them to travel or be in Pakistan.”

To a question about Indian journalists being roughed up in Pakistan and reaction of the Government, the Official Spokesperson said:

“It is unfortunate that such an incident has taken place with two journalists from News X channel and that journalists are being treated in this manner. We are awaiting full details from our High Commission in Islamabad which has brought this to the attention of the concerned Pakistani authorities.”

New Delhi
February 5, 2009