NEW DELHI: Setting aside political differences, the Lok Sabha on Friday sent out a strong message to Pakistan condemning the bail to Laskhar-e-Toiba (LeT) commander and architect of 26/11 Mumbai attacks Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi by a court there.
The Lok Sabha passed a resolution expressing its concern at the “numerous delays in the prosecution and the apathetic attitude of the government of Pakistan” on the 26/11 attacks which has resulted in the bail to the terrorist.
The resolution said India should take every step in its power to pressure Pakistan to bring the matter to a satisfactory conclusion, and dismantle the terrorism infrastructure in Pakistan. “Ensure that terrorists are not allowed to remain free to continue their evil activities against India and the countries of the region,” the resolution said.
India asked Pakistan to ensure appropriate measures to bring those involved in the barbaric attacks to justice. Lakhvi was to be freed on Friday morning, but Pakistani newspaper Dawn said he was detained under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) at Rawalpindi’s Adiala prison after the Nawaz Sharif-led government decided to appeal against his bail in the higher court.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed Lakhvi’s bail as a setback for all those who believe in humanitarianism. “We have given a strong message to Pakistan and conveyed our feelings. We have conveyed the message in appropriate words to Pakistan,” said Modi.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said just two days after saying it was serious in its fight against terrorism, by giving bail to Lakhvi, Pakistan has made a mockery of its own claim.
Earlier, the House proceedings began with members expressing concern over the Pakistani anti-terrorism court granting bail to Lakhvi. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge demanded that Modi make a statement in the House, as he had spoken to Sharif two days ago after the killing of 132 children in Peshawar.
Modi said in Lok Sabha that India shared the pain over the massacre of children in Pakistan.
“Every Indian child had tears in their eyes, every Indian had tears. Now after this, this incident has come as a shock to those who believe in humanitarianism. India immediately conveyed its sentiments in the strongest terms to Pakistan,” Modi said. He went on to assure that the sentiments expressed by the members will be reflected in the government’s actions.