‘Better sense should prevail’: Imran Khan once again invites India for dialogue

Advising India that a better sense should prevail, Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday once again invited India to investigate into the Pulwama attack.

Addressing the nation, the premier started by saying that he wanted to take the nation into confidence about the existing situation. He said that following the Pulwama attack, Pakistan offered India to investigate into the attack, adding that he understands the pain of those families who lost the Indian soldiers in the Pulwama attack. "I have visited hospitals and seen the pain of people affected by violence and war. We have lost 70,000 of our own and I know what those who are left behind and those who are injured feel," he said.

"Hence we straight away offered India to investigate the attack along with them. It is not in Pakistan's interest to let our land be used for terrorism," he said, adding that there is no dispute between them when Pakistan is ready to cooperate with India regarding the Pulwama attack.

"But, I had still feared that India would still take action and [ignore Pakistan's offer]" he said, adding that he knew India would take action as their elections were coming and this is why he had warned India against aggression and told India that Pakistan will be compelled to respond against their aggression.

Speaking about India's violation of Line of Control on Tuesday, PM said Pakistan had not responded the same day to India as we were not aware whether there were any causalities and damage. "We did not respond right away as [without confirming of any causalities and damage, as it would have been irresponsible and it would have resulted in casualties on their side," he said.

The PM said that they had already planned that they will ensure there are no casualties and no collateral damage. "The only purpose of Pakistan's action today was to convey to India that if you can come into our country, we can do the same," the PM added.

Two Indian MiGs crossed Line of Control after Pakistan retaliated, the PM said, adding that the jets were shot down and the pilots are with Pakistan.

"I ask India, given the weapons capability on both sides, can we afford a miscalculation? It will neither be in my control nor Modi’s. I invite India again - we are ready to come on the table and talk about terrorism that affects both the countries. We are ready," the PM added.