India wants to resolve ceasefire violations issue: IAF chief

Hindon (Uttar Pradesh): Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha Wednesday said India wants to resolve the issue of ceasefire violations by Pakistan as soon as possible.

"It is a serious issue, it should not have happened...The government is taking it seriously...We want peace, tranquility, and good relations with neighbours," said the IAF chief, who is also the chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee.

"The government has taken diplomatic steps and is making all efforts to bring it (firing) to an end. We are all concerned and want an early solution to it. The security forces are working towards it," he said.

He was speaking to the media persons after the 82nd Air Force Day celebrations at the Hindon Air Force Station on the outskirts of Delhi.

The IAF chief also said that Defence Minister Arun Jaitley was briefed about the developments Tuesday.

"The defence minister was not well for the past some time. As he returned, it was necessary to call and update him about the issues important for the nation," said Raha.

The IAF chief stressed that India wanted peace.

"It is a big concern for all and we need to resolve it so that we can focus on development," said Raha.

Two people were killed and 25 injured as Pakistani troops fired on the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba district, authorities said Wednesday, adding Pakistan fired throughout the night and did not stop as the day broke.