Pakistan a "den" of terrorism: Rao Inderjit Singh

NEW DELHI: Terming Pakistan as a "den" of terrorism, Minister of State for Defence Rao Inderjit Singh today hoped Islamabad will take take action against the masterminds of the Pathankot air base attack and made it clear that the Pakistani investigating team will not be allowed inside the air base.

"It is hoped that Pakistan will take action because the voices emerging from there indicate that they might do something this time," he said adding that this could also be because of international pressure.

He called Pakistan a "den" (adda) of terrorism and said "it is the responsibility of the entire world to end terrorism there and it is a good thing that they are putting pressure."

Singh was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an NCC event here.

Asked whether Pakistani investigators will be allowed inside the Pathankot air base, Singh said "our Minister" has said that they cannot be allowed to get inside.

He was apparently referring to reported comments of Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar in Jaipur that the Pakistani Special Investigating Team (SIT), during its visit to India, will not be allowed inside the air base.

Earlier, Singh visited NCC Republic Day Camp-2016 being conducted at the Garrison Parade Ground here today.

Lauding the role of the cadets, Singh has said that the premiere agency is the mentor of the youth. He appreciated its commitment to grooming of future leaders of the country.

He said he was proud of NCC having entered Limca Book of Records for the largest yoga performance by 9.5 lakh cadets at multiple venues on the International Day of Yoga.