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In the strongest warning yet over unabated ceasefire violations from across the border, India today asserted that Pakistan will not be able to bear the cost of this 'adventurism' if it persists with such 'unprovoked' aggression.
"Pakistan in these attacks has clearly been the aggressor but it must realise that our deterrence will be credible. If Pakistan persists with this adventurism, our forces will make the cost of this adventurism unafforable," Defence Minister Arun Jaitley told reporters here.
If Pakistan wants peace on the borders, Jaitley said, it should stop what it is doing. "Pakistan has to stop this unprovoked firing and shelling. As long as that continues how can there be peace."
Asked about chances of talks between leaders of the two countries, he shot back, "how can you talk when firing is on."
Our armed forces, Jaitley said, have been doing a commendable job.
He said India is a responsible country which is not an aggressor but it is responsible for fully protecting its people and land.
"Our forces are taking all steps they can to protect our people and land," he said.
Seven civilians have been killed so far in Pakistani firing in civilian areas close to the border since October 6. A total of 60 people have been injured, including five who were injured Wednesday night.
Jaitley said that Pakistan was clearly the aggressor in the recent attacks and that the ceasefire violations were 'an effort by Pakistan to precipitate tensions where none exist' and 'to provide a cover for infiltration'.
Over 20,000 people from the border villages have abandoned their homes to avoid being targeted by Pakistani shelling of civilian habitations in Jammu, Samba and Kathua districts.
Pak troops intensify firing across border
Pak troops intensify firing across border
