Talking tough after an unprecedented terror attack on security forces in Kashmir that killed 44 CRPF jawans on Thursday, the Government on Friday removed “Most Favoured Nation” (MNF) privilege accorded to Pakistan.
All steps will be taken to ensure the neighbouring country’s isolation globally, the Government said after the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) met here to review the situation following the terror strike reportedly had a backing of the Pakistan- based Jaish-e-Mohammad.
After the CCS meeting at Prime Minister’s residence, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said all efforts will be made to ensure that perpetrators of the attack are brought to book.
“The Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan stands revoked,” he said. He said those aiding and abating the perpetrators will have to pay a heavy price. The MNF status ensures non-discriminatory trade between two countries. India granted MFN status to Pakistan in 1996.
There has been an outrage nationally and internationally against the terror attack which is suspected to have received a helping hand from the Pakistani Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
“Ministry of External Affairs will initiate all possible diplomatic steps which are to be taken to ensure complete isolation of Pakistan in the international community,” he said, adding “incontrovertible evidence” is available of Pakistan’s direct hand in this gruesome terrorist attack.
