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'No criminal who dares to raise a hand against India shall, in the ultimate, go unpunished'

Amberish K Diwanji in Delhi

Addressing the press briefly on his arrival in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh said the hijacked aircraft would be thoroughly checked before it finally returns to the country.

Making a statement on the denouement, Singh said, "Early in this testing and demanding challenge to India, the government had clearly stated that its intention, purpose and aim was to bring the earliest possible termination to this whole hijacking while simultaneously ensuring the safety of the passengers and crew. I'm happy to state that this part of the government's stated aim against the challenge has been met and fulfilled."

He added, "I take this opportunity to express our appreciation and gratitude to the Taleban and the authorities in Afghanistan, for their co-operation, which was constructive all along during the trying period."

Singh said, "I clearly wish to state that India's fight against terrorism continues unrelentingly. No criminal who dares to raise a hand against India shall, in the ultimate, go unpunished."

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