India recalls its troops from joint exercise in Thailand

NEW DELHI: India has recalled its troops currently in Thailand for the bilateral 'Maitree' military exercise in the wake of the coup there even as it pitched for restoration of normalcy based on the principles of democracy and will of the people of that country.

Spokesperson in Ministry of External Affairs said the troops have been "advised to return" to India following the situation in that country. There are about 50 Indian troops who had gone to participate in the exercise, which was scheduled to start tomorrow.

"India is concerned with the recent developments in Thailand. We are monitoring the evolving situation closely. The Indian community in Thailand is safe. "We hope for an urgent political resolution and restoration of normalcy based on the principles of democracy, the will of the people and rule of law in Thailand," he said.

In a sudden move, Thailand's army yesterday seized power in a bloodless coup and suspended the Constitution after months of anti-government protests left the country in limbo. The junta today tightened its grip on the politically unstable nation, summoning the entire ousted cabinet, including former premier Yingluck Shinawatra to a meeting to restore peace and order, a day after it staged a coup.