(a) whether Pakistan based militant group Laskhar-e-Tayyeba has expanded its operations in Afghanistan and is now setting up new training camps with the aim of hitting more Indian targets as reported in the media;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has taken up the matter with the Afghanistan Government; and
(d) if so, the response of the Afghan Government thereto and the steps taken/proposed to be taken in this regard?
MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)
(a): Government has seen reports that the Lashkar-e-Taiba has expanded its operations
in Afghanistan and set up training camps. Government continuously monitors the existence
and operations of terrorist groups that target India and Indian interests.
(b) to (d): Government has consistently raised with its international partners, including
the Government of Afghanistan, the issue of existence of terrorist sanctuaries in the region
which target India and other countries. The Communique issued after the Kabul Conference,
co-hosted by the Government of Afghanistan and the United Nations, also referred to combating
terrorism by ending support, sustenance and sanctuaries for terrorists.
Government of India has comprehensively reviewed and enhanced security measures for
the safety and security of our personnel and other Indians working in Afghanistan. It is
also in regular touch with the Government of Afghanistan, which has assured necessary
security for Indians in that country.
Government is committed to taking all necessary steps to safeguard the nation’s
security.