Iran slams 'undignified rumours' on Indian spy arrest

The Iranian Embassy here on Thursday slammed "certain elements in Pakistan" for spreading "undignified and offensive" remarks, which it said were attributed to President Hassan Rouhani, regarding the arrest of Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav.

"Elements unhappy over promotion of ties between the two Islamic countries of Iran and Pakistan are trying in various ways, including the spreading of undignified and sometimes offensive contents, to fade out the significant achievements during the visit of President Rouhani to Pakistan," embassy spokesman Abbas Badrifar told media, Dawn reported.

The comments came just days after alleged Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav's arrest was announced on March 25, while Rouhani was visiting Islamabad.

Badrifar said such tactics "will not impact the positive views of the two countries regarding each other."

He said since independence, Pakistan had always proven itself a "trusted partner and neighbour", adding that the "western borders of Pakistan have never been threatened".

"Iran considers its borders with Pakistan those of peace and friendship," the spokesman said.

Law enforcement agencies announced the arrest of Jadhav, saying he had been picked up during an intelligence-based raid in Balochistan's Chaman area.

Earlier the Indian government said it "categorically rejects allegations that this individual was involved in subversive activities in Pakistan at our behest", claiming that their enquiries reveal he had been harassed while operating a legitimate business from Iran.