Question : ARMY WARNS OF NEW KARGIL LIKE SITUATION

(a) whether Pakistan is preparing for a big offensive in Kashmir in the coming days;

(b) if so, whether a large number of militants are reportedly undergoing training in 123 training camps in Pakistan, Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and at Afghanistan border;

(c) if so, whether 2500 militants are waiting along the Line of Control to cross over to this side;

(d) whether these militants are equipped with highly sophisticated weapons and deadly devices like missiles;

(e) whether the Government have also examined the media report stating “Army Warns of New Kargil Strike”; and

(f) if so, the action the Government propose to take in this regard?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI GEORGE FERNANDES)

(a) to (f): A statement is laid on the Table of the House.


STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (f) OF LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO. 65 FOR 27.7.2000

While it is well known that certain Pakistani agencies have been supporting and sponsoring terrorist organisations that have been trying to raise the level of terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir, there are no indications to suggest that any big offensive is likely to be launched by Pakistan in the near future.

There are reports that terrorists are undergoing training in 94 training camps in Pakistan and Pak Occupied Kashmir and certain training camps in Afghanistan. There are approximately 3000 terrorists reportedly camping in various training camps/launch pads awaiting infiltration into J&K.

The weaponry supplied to infiltrating groups has also been upgraded. These terrorists are reported to be equipped with sophisticated weapons, like Assault Rifles, Universal Machine Guns, Rocket Launchers, Missiles and Explosive devices.

All developments having a bearing on India’s national security are constantly monitored and all necessary steps are taken from time to time to maintain appropriate defence preparedness to thwart any attempt of misadventure on the part of elements hostile to India.