Pune: Indian government was committed to conduct free and fair elections in Jammu and Kashmir though there has been no let up in the infiltration by Pakistan in the state, information consultant to Defence Minister Ramamohan Rao said on August 31.

Expressing concern over the cross-border terrorism initiated by the neighbouring country, Rao said despite assurance by Pakistan President Musharraf to end cross- border terrorism, infiltration has not come down.

Infiltration of militants and mercenaries has been continuing on the line of control (LoC) and violence has not abated in Jammu and Kashmir except marginally, he said while talking to reporters in an informal chat at the office of Community Aid Sponsorship Programme (CASP).

Since 1990 there has been more than 55,000 incidents of infiltration in the state. The Indian Army had killed more than 2,600 foreign militants including mercenaries, Rao said.

In the last week of July, Pakistan had tried to make intrusion in the Indian sector, which was effectively repulsed.

"First they were warned and when they did not heed, the Indian Army effectively repulsed them," he added.

Rao said that though the foreign press as well as the foreign Embassy is welcome to see the ensuing Jammu and Kashmir elections, India does not think there was any need for the presence of any foreign official observers.

"Our system can ensure free and fair elections in the troubled Valley," he said and added that the Chief Election Commissioner has taken elaborate steps in this regard.

PTI