It is not factually
correct that the Pakistan troops had occupied a strategic post
on our side of the Line of Control which necessitated a massive
attack by Indian troops & air force on Loonda post in Machal
sector. However, in the last week of July 2002, there was minor
Pakistan intrusion, approximately 800 meters on our side of the
Line of Control in the area of Point 3260, which is 1800 meters
East of Loonda post. The intrusion was evicted by appropriate
action of ground troops and Air Force on August 02, 2002.
Point 3260 is not
considered tactically important and viable for physical occupation
by our own troops. Being in close proximity of the Line of Control
and the area not being physically occupied, Pakistan troops had
intruded into this area. However, since the area is regularly
patrolled by our own troops, they observed presence of some Pakistan
troops in the area of Point 3260 on July 26, 2002, and suitable
action was taken to evict the intrusion and to restore the sanctity
of the Line of Control. As such, no enquiry was ordered into the
incident.
It would not be correct
to draw a parallel of this minor incursion with the Pakistan intrusions
in Kargil.
This information
was given by the Defence Minister Shri George Fernandes in a written
reply to Shri Aimmaduddin Ahmed Khan in Rajya Sabha today.
