Indian armed forces can respond "appropriately" if and when the Pakistani military violates the ceasefire on the Jammu and Kashmir border, Defence Minister A.K. Antony said Monday.
"The armed forces have the freedom to respond to the developing situation appropriately," Antony told reporters here.
Antony was here for the launch of India's first indigenous aircraft carrier Vikrant.
Five Indian soldiers were killed when Pakistani troops sneaked into Jammu and Kashmir and ambushed an army patrol last week.
Defence officials said Pakistan troops violated the 2003 ceasefire thrice since Sunday, firing at Indian positions from across the border.
Pakistan Rangers fired at a Border Security Force (BSF) post at Kanachak in Jammu district, injuring a BSF trooper.