Pathankot Operations continued longer to protect lives of jawans, says Parrikar

Dharwad (Karnataka): Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday said the reason behind the prolonged operation at Pathankot airbase was to avoid casualties on the Indian side.

"The operation continued for nearly 38 hours as saving the lives of jawans was the priority of the government. The armed forces were instructed to tread a cautious line, keeping the safety of jawans at stake," he said at a function here.

India was safe in the hands of this government and terrorist activities would be dealt with an iron hand, Parrikar said, adding a befitting reply would be given for attacks on the country.

"The situation now is under control in Pathankot and that is why I came here to participate in this function," he said. Seven security personnel and six terrorists have been killed in the attack.

On the Mahadayi river water sharing issue between Goa and Karnataka, Parrikar said he would extend all help to sort out this issue through talks.