Pakistan extends an olive branch; Pak DGMO calls Indian counterpart

New Delhi: After repeated ceasefire violations and infiltrations, Pakistan on Monday extended an olive branch to India as its Director General Military Operations called its Indian counterpart. As per reports, India’s DGMO Lt. Gen. A.K. Bhatt told his Pakistani counterpart that India wanted peace but would take "appropriate retaliatory action" if Pakistan abets infiltration. A statement from the Indian Army said the Indian DGMO spoke to his Pakistani counterpart after a request by Pakistan, and discussed the current situation along the Line of Control. "DGMO Indian Army conveyed his commitment to ensure peace and tranquility which is contingent on Pakistan Army's intentions and actions," the statement said. "If Pakistan Army continues to abet infiltrations and cause cross LoC firing, the Indian Army would take appropriate retaliatory action," it said. "Needless escalations" by the Pakistani side were highlighted. When Pakistan raised the issue of civilian killings, the Indian DGMO said the Indian Army is a professional force which does not harm civilians in any manner.