Army blows hot and cold

GOC-in-C, Northern Command, Lt Gen Hari Prasad today said the recent incidents of mortar shelling by militants in Poonch showed that they had the support of the Pakistani Army.

8216;8216;This mortar shelling is not possible without the Pak Army8217;s help,8217;8217; the Army Commander said, after presenting gallantry medals to more than 60 Army personnel today. 8216;8216;These mortars are only with the Army.8217;8217; Pakistan had, on Thursday, denied that its Army had indulged in shelling across the border.

8216;8216;This violation of ceasefire by the other side, the Indian Army is exercising restraint in view of the spirit of the CBMs,8217;8217; Prasad said. 8216;8216;We are holding ceasefire despite these incidents, and we are analysing the situation. So far, there is no need for retaliation. But that does not mean we are not ready8230;Reduction of troops has not reduced our response. Whenever required, we can go in for re-induction of troops.8217;8217;