New Delhi: India's persistent demand for bringing an end to infiltration and dismantling of terrorist infrastructure has not been responded to by Pakistan, Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani said today (Dec 5, 2003).

"On our demand that infiltration be stopped and terrorist infrastructure be dismantled, there has been practically no response from the other side," Advani said while inaugurating the International Security, Safety and Fire Exhibition in New Delhi.

Apparently referring to Pakistan, he said, "Their response is of a nature of tactical moves to ward off pressures from the international community.

"I am sorry to say India's efforts have not been reciprocated by the other side," he said.

Advani said India, which has been facing terrorist attacks for over two decades with a "rhythmic regularity", has succeeded in creating a world climate where terrorism is unacceptable. "This climate is also having its impact."

The entire world feels resources of the two countries (India and Pakistan) should be utilised for welfare of the people and not spent on security concerns.

"From temples of worship to temples of economy, nothing is immune from the terrorist's gun anymore," he said while referring to the Kandahar hijacking, to attacks on Parliament, Srinagar Assembly, Akshardham and Raghunath temples.

Advani said India's most important concern at present is cross-border terrorism and unlike most other countries it did not require a "9/11 to catalyse our security apparatus for tackling this menace".

He said during a visit to Israel in 1996, he was witness to a high degree of security consciousness there. "It was visible at the airport. But the US airports became different only after the 9/11 terrorist attack."

As terrorism has globalised, it is imperative for security agencies to be on constant vigil and upgrade their gadgets and equipment to provide foolproof security.

The exhibition was organised by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in association with the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO).

PTI