The North News
New Delhi, August 11
India has accused Pakistan’s military of being “hand in glove” with terrorist groups and engaging in “nuclear sabre-rattling” after its army chief made remarks during a trip to the United States.
In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the comments by General Asim Munir reflected a pattern of provocative rhetoric and “well-held doubts” over the integrity of Pakistan’s nuclear command and control.
“The international community can draw its own conclusions on the irresponsibility inherent in such remarks,” the MEA said. It also expressed regret that the statements were made “from the soil of a friendly third country.”
New Delhi reiterated that it would not tolerate what it called “nuclear blackmail” and would take “all steps necessary” to protect its national security.
The exchange comes amid continuing tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbours, whose relations have been strained for decades over territorial disputes, cross-border militancy and periodic diplomatic flare-ups.
