Lesser chances of conflagration

He said as a consequence of acquisition of nuclear weapons by both countries, New Delhi and Islamabad should modify their stand on Kashmir and called for a serious look at the issue.

The American Television Network was focussing, post-hijacking, on threat posed by nuclear weapons in the sub-continent, in view of what it called enhanced tension between the two neighbours.

Asked under what conditions Pakistan would be prepared to use nuclear weapons, Musharraf said quot;if the security of Pakistan is threatened8230; that is my short answer.quot;

Responding to Musharraf8217;s proposal of a serious dialogue on Kashmir, National Security Adviser Brajesh Mishra told CNN that New Delhi was prepared to discuss the issue with Pakistan but first quot;Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in India must stopquot;.

He said Pakistan8217;s rhetoric on bilateral talks was not matched by its deeds. quot;Well, we listen to their words but we watch their actions which promote, instigate, abet terrorism in India. These speak louder than their words.quot;

Asked if India had any proof of Islamabad8217;s complicity in terrorist acts, especially in the recent hijacking, Mishra said, quot;I am not merely talking about hijacking which took place only recently. I am talking of the terrorism which has been promoted and instigated by them since the last 15 years and more, first in Punjab and then in Jammu and Kashmir.quot;

quot;This hijacking is just related to that aspect of terrorist activities of Pakistan,quot; Mishra said, stressing Pakistan8217;s attitude towards India was the main stumbling block to peace.

Referring to India8217;s nuclear weapons, he said India8217;s policy on such weapons was clear.

quot;So far as India is concerned, we have already decided we will not be the first to use nuclear weapons and we would like to ask Pakistan to adopt the same policy.quot;