Sir — Ceasefire violations by Pakistan’s Army at the line of Control are business as usual for our troublesome neighbour. It is good that the Indian troops have retaliated effectively. They must be given a free hand to deal with the situation, without waiting for orders from New Delhi.
Former Minister for Defence Minister AK Antony had promised a free hand to the Army to counter the attacks. But even after that assurance, many ceasefire violations happened and Indian jawans became victims. There is little that we have done to contain these repeated acts of aggression.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has extended a hand of friendship in response to the invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the latter’s swearing-in ceremony. But friendship and attacks can never go hand in hand.Mr Sharif has to show that he values friendship especially India. This can be established if he takes drastic action against those responsible for ceasefire violations from his side.