Lakhvi release: India takes up concerns with China at 'highest level'

India has taken up with China "at the highest level" its concerns over Beijing blocking its move in the UN for action against Pakistan over the release of 26/11 mastermind Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi from jail last month.

In response to a question on China's statement on Lakhvi at the United Nations, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Vikas Swarup said: "Government had taken up the issue of violation of the 1267 sanctions regime in respect of Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi.

"Our concerns in this matter were conveyed to the chair of the 1267 Committee. We also raised this bilaterally with the other member of the committee. In the case of China, this matter has been taken up at the highest level."

The UN Sanctions Committee, which met at India's request, was to seek a clarification from Pakistan on Lakhvi's release in the Mumbai attacks trial but China blocked the move on grounds that India did not provide sufficient information, according to reports.

India had approached the UN last month against Lakhvi's release from Adiala Jail, following the Lahore High Court verdict declaring his detention orders illegal.

--Indo-Asian News service

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