Question : SUSPECTED LASHKAR BASE IN MALDIVES

(a) whether there are reports of Pakistan based terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba trying to encircle India by setting up their bases in neighbouring countries including the Maldives;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the said issue was discussed with the Home Minister of Maldives who visited the country recently;

(d) if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the steps taken by the Government to thwart the nefarious efforts of the said terrorist outfit at the international level?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI AJAY MAKEN)

(a) to (e): Available input indicates that Lashkar-e-Taiba endeavours to develop links in India’s neighbouring countries including the Maldives. India and Maldives continue to work closely in strengthening bilateral security cooperation. Our security concerns are conveyed through the bilateral channels/mechanisms, with the concerned countries.