We too have capability to carry out surgical strikes: IAF Chief

NEW DELHI: As the world rejoiced over the killing of Al Qaida chief Osama bin Laden in a US commando action in Pakistan, Air Chief Marshal P V Naik today said India too has the capability to carry out such surgical strikes against terrorists but did not elaborate.

"India has the capability," he told reporters here when asked whether India can undertake surgical strikes against terrorists similar to that by the US. He, however did not elaborate.

The statement assumes significance as there had been demands after 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that India should carry out surgical strikes at terror camps in Pakistan.

On Osama's killing, Naik hoped it would reduce the impact or intensity of terrorism.

"There is one less terrorist in the world. He was an iconic figure on the terrorist world. It is good thing that he has been eliminated," he said while talking on the sidelines of the annual P C Lall memorial lecture here.

Asked if India was increasing its security measures after Osama's killing, Naik said, "He (Osama) controlled a large group. There is a chance that this group may do something in retaliation. So every sane man would increase his security status till you analyse. India is also doing the same."