Wednesday, January 4 2006 09:32 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Islamabad: Amidst concerns expressed by India over the military operation in Balochistan, Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has said the action against tribals and nationalists in the province, who were agitating for more autonomy would continue till the 'writ' of the government is established there.

"The President affirmed that the action by paramilitary forces against miscreants would be taken and writ of the government would be restored where challenged," Musharraf told a meeting of the Corps Commanders held yesterday (Jan 03, 2006), sources said.

The government would ensure protection of important national installations and continue with the development activities, which are people focussed and need of that area, he said.

Paramilitary forces in Pakistan continued operations against the nationalists and tribals who were up in arms against the government opposing the construction of the cantonments there.

Opposition parties here, however, have criticised the government for using military power to crush the rebels.

Pakistan took exception to the concern expressed by India over the army using helicopter gunships and jet fighters to bombard the rebel positions.

The Corps Commanders reviewed the internal and external security situation, operational preparedness, training and other matters of professional interest.