New Delhi, October 30
In a scathing attack on the Pakistan Army, Defence Minister AK Antony on Wednesday accused it of aiding and abetting infiltration of terrorists into India.

“Infiltration is on the rise, and it is going on with the support of elements across the border. I am sure that nothing can happen without the knowledge and tacit support of Pakistan,” the Defence Minister told reporters on the sidelines of a function at the Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA).

Antony said the security forces have observed that the terrorists trying to infiltrate were well-equipped and prepared to sustain for a longer period while carrying out their activities.

"On their side, the border is completely guarded by the Pakistan Army. How can terrorists try to infiltrate into India without the knowledge and support of Pakistan? How can terrorists feel emboldened to increase attempt to infiltrate without the tacit or sometimes open support of the Pakistani armed forces? That is a question worrying us," he said.

About the incidence of firing on the border, he said: “Ceasefire violations are continuing. But this year, unusual developments are taking place. So far, truce violations were taking place only along the LoC. Suddenly, there have been a series of ceasefire violations on the international border. It’s a matter of serious concern.”

“We are repeatedly telling (Pakistan) that India wants improvement in relations. If they are sincere in their attempts, how can this infiltration take place,” he asked.

The Defence Minister said though the level of violations on the international border has fallen down, the armed forces are keeping a watch and are fully prepared to meet any eventuality.

"I am confident that our security forces are able to meet any challenges. They are handling the situation very effectively," he said.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had taken up the matter with his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif during his US visit in September this year.

On being asked about the newly inked India-China Border Defence Cooperation Agreement (BDCA), Antony said it was a sincere attempt from both sides to avoid tensions at the border.

On being asked if this could prevent face-off situations like the one in April-May this year, he said: “The fact that we have agreed on a certain set of procedures and mechanisms doesn’t mean nothing will happen. But with the agreement now, if something happens, there are mechanisms to intervene and find solutions. Both sides will make sincere attempts to maintain peace and stability in the border”.