Ceasefire violations a matter of great concern: Khurshid

Says meeting of DGMO's of both countries will be held soon

Terming the ceasefire violations on the LoC as a matter of serious concern, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid today said it is not just an issue of diplomacy but also of military relations and maintained that the government is giving it high priority.

"This is the very thing we want to address. This is not just an issue of diplomacy. This is an issue of military relations. The actual on the ground situation is known to the military on both sides," Khurshid told reporters.

Expressing full confidence in the defence forces, the minister said, "We owe a tremendous gratitude to them, both for showing restraint, firmness, determination and for total preparedness to face any onslaught."

Two BSF jawans were yesterday injured as Pakistani troops opened fire at ten border out posts and civilian areas along the International Border in Jammu and Samba districts.

"I think this is a serious matter- a matter of great concern to India. We will handle it with the greatest sagacity and firmness to protect the safety and sovereignty of the citizens," Khurshid said.

Maintaining that this issue is one of high-priority for the government, Khurshid said a meeting of the DGMOs of both the countries should be held soon.

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Salman Bashir said both sides should take steps to stabilise the situation on the LoC. "I think this is the understanding, this is the decision of the two Prime Ministers. Pakistan is prepared to do whatever it can to exercise utmost restraint and responsibility. I hope this happens sooner than later," he said.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had requested the Government to take up this issue firmly with Pakistan.

"It is not clear who is behind this and with what motive this is being done. Some days back our Prime Minister met the Pakistani PM in New York. They talked about ceasefire violations and it was decided that the army DGMOs of both countries should talk and find a way out," he had said.