Pak Army given nod to respond

Even as Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan banned the terror outfit JuD, he authorised the military to "respond decisively and comprehensively to any aggression or misadventure" by India. Khan, who chaired a key meeting of the National Security Committee, said the Pakistan government was "determined to demonstrate" that it is capable of protecting its people. The meeting also concluded that "Pakistan is not involved in any way, means or form in Pulwama incident and it was conceived, planned and executed indigenously", according to the statement. It further said Pakistan has offered to seriously investigate the "incident." ‘‘We expect India to positively respond to these offers," the statement said, adding that based on the investigation or any tangible evidence provided, Pakistan shall take action against anyone found using its soil.

The NSC further urged the global community to play its part in resolving the Kashmir issue.

In a video message on Tuesday, Khan had assured India that he would act against the perpetrators of the Pulwama terror attack if New Delhi shares "actionable intelligence", but warned against any "revenge" retaliatory action. Ahead of the NSC meeting on Thursday, Prime Minister Khan and Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa held a one-on-one meeting during which they discussed region's security situation.