WHAT EXPLANATION DEFENSE MINISTER RAJNATH SINGH GAVE ON ACCIDENTAL MISSILE LAUNCH INTO PAKISTAN ?

(The Quiver) : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday, March 15, said that a high-level probe has been ordered into the incident that involved the accidental launch of a missile into Pakistani territory on March 9.

Addressing to the Rajya Sabha , he said a high-level probe has been ordered and “if any lapses are found, action will be taken accordingly”. “I’d like to tell this House about an incident that occurred on 9th March 2022.

He explained,”an accidental missile release during the inspection. During routine maintenance and inspection of the missile unit, around 7 pm, one missile got accidentally released.”

Speaking on the developments on this issue ,he said , “I would like to inform the House that the government has taken serious note of the incident. A formal high-level inquiry has been ordered. The inquiry would determine the exact cause of the said accident” . “Thankfully, no damage was reported due to the accidental launch of the missile ”,he added .

“Our operations, maintenance, and inspections are conducted following a set of standard operating procedures, which are being evaluated. Any laxity found in the safety and security of our weapons systems will be dealt with immediately. Our missile system is extremely trustworthy and secure. Our armed forces are experienced in handling such systems,” he said.

As per reports , Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs called upon the Indian government to explain the measures and procedures put in place to prevent accidental missile launches and the specific circumstances of the March 9 incident.