India voices concern over N Korean N-test

Voicing concern over the nuclear test carried out by North Korea, India today said the act amounts to violation of its international commitments and that the development could have "adverse effect" on peace and security in that region.      

"We have heard the claims of North Korea that they have carried out a nuclear test. The conduct of North Korea and their claimed test is in violation of its international commitments and it is unfortunate," External Affairs Minister S M Krishna told reporters while taking charge here.      

"Like others in the international community, we are concerned at the adverse effect on peace and security in that region because of such tests," he said, adding India continues to monitor the situation.       

He was commenting on claims by North Korea earlier in the day that it had carried out a second and more powerful nuclear test, despite international pressure to rein in its nuclear programmes after years of disarmament talks.       

North Korea conducted its first Nuclear test in October 2006.Noting that India is against nuclear proliferation, Defence Minister A K Antony said the atomic test by North Korea is "a development of serious concern."       

Antony said "the security scenario around India is becoming more and more challenging. Developments around us is a cause of serious concern to us. So, eternal vigilance is a must from all quarters."