New Delhi:
After Pakistan alleged that INS Godavari, the Indian warship escorting MV Suez brushed with its frigate PNS Babur, New Delhi today strongly denied the allegations, claiming instead that it was the Pakistani warship which scraped past INS Godavari, sources said.
In fact, India lodged a formal protest with Pakistan, conveying "serious concern" over the incident.
Here is the government's statement on the formal protest:India lodged a protest today with the Government of Pakistan through the High Commission of Pakistan, New Delhi against the violation by Pakistan Naval Ship (PNS) Babur of relevant regulations on navigational safety as contained in the 'International Regulations for Prevention of Collisions at Sea' and Article 10 of the 'Agreement between India-Pakistan on Advance Notice on Military Exercises, Manoeuvres and Troops Movements 1991' involving INS Godavari on high seas. PNS Babur by its risky manoeuvres jeopardised the safety of INS Godavari and its crew.
On June 17, 2011, the Naval Adviser of the Pakistan High Commission was summoned to the Ministry of Defence and our serious concern on this incident was conveyed.
New Delhi
June 18, 2011